Celvin Moniaga Sipahutar, Ichsan Ali, Magelang – The days of Prabowo Subianto's "gemoy" (adorable) campaign persona during the 2024 Presidential Election are over. After dancing his way to a decisive electoral victory, the former army general has reverted to his true identity as a leader who embraces a military approach.
Prabowo led his Red and White Cabinet on a four-day retreat at the Indonesian Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang, where ministers were transported via Hercules military aircraft instead of chartered planes on Thursday. Instead of luxury hotels, the cabinet members stayed in tents and donned military uniforms, participating in synchronized walking exercises reminiscent of military training.
"I am not here to make you militaristic; that's a misconception. Many governments and corporations have adopted The Military Way. The core values are discipline and loyalty – not to me, but to the Indonesian nation and people," Prabowo said during the retreat opening ceremony on Friday.
Later that night, President Prabowo assured that the ministers of the Red and White Cabinet were fully committed to serving the interests of the nation. "The ministers are ready to give everything to defend the interests of the Indonesian nation and people," he emphasized during a gala dinner with his team and cadets at the Military Academy. A meal of white rice accompanied by various dishes was served, including beef stew, spicy shrimp, chicken, stir-fried broccoli, and crackers.
During the event, Prabowo explained his choice of Akmil in the Tidar Valley as the training location, highlighting its historical significance in Indonesia's struggle for independence. He said that this valley was the site of resistance against colonial powers, tracing back to Sultan Agung's march to Batavia and the fight led by Prince Diponegoro.
"The Tidar Valley is the center of Indonesian chivalry. Almost all cadets and alumni of military academies, including the police, have experienced climbing Tidar Hill, either voluntarily or as punishment. This is the true center of chivalry," Prabowo remarked.
He also showcased several paintings of Indonesian heroes displayed in the dining hall, reinforcing his belief that his cabinet comprises soldiers who symbolize a new hope for Indonesia's future over the next five years. Consequently, the ministers are expected to be prepared for self-sacrifice for the nation.
"I brought them here to see the seeds of national leadership, to observe their spirit and discipline. A soldier must be ready to sacrifice body and soul for the nation," Prabowo asserted.
The President expressed gratitude and pride for having the best individuals in the Red and White Cabinet, which includes the top graduates from the military and police forces.
During the occasion, Prabowo called on the six Adhi Makayasa recipients to stand. He first introduced two of the best graduates from the police: Chief Security Affairs Minister Budi Gunawan and Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian.
He then introduced four recipients from the military: Head of the National Intelligence Agency (BIN) Muhammad Herindra, Deputy Minister of Defense Donny Ermawan, Transmigration Minister Iftitah Suryanegara, and Chief Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY).
Prabowo also expressed pride in Maruli Simanjuntak, Chief of Staff of the Army and Southeast Asia Judo Champion. "Here's Maruli, the only officer I've ever carried on my back," Prabowo joked.
The atmosphere grew warmer after dinner as members of the Red and White Cabinet joined Akmil cadets in a dance party. Initially, the lively atmosphere was set by dangdut-koplo music (a remix of techno and Indonesian folk). Slowly, the ministers moved toward the stage, joining in the dancing, much to the delight of the cadets.
The festivities peaked when BIN Chief Herindra took the microphone, leading several ministers in a performance of the popular Javanese song "Pamer Bojo," much to the enjoyment of the gathered cadets.