Hendro Dahlan Situmorang, Jakarta – President-elect Prabowo Subianto met with several potential ministerial candidates at his South Jakarta residence on Monday. Among those summoned was Natalius Pigai, a prominent human rights activist and former commissioner of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM).
Pigai, recognized for his advocacy for indigenous and marginalized communities in Papua, arrived at the meeting wearing a traditional batik shirt. After a 30-minute discussion with Prabowo, he expressed his readiness to support the incoming administration.
"I am ready to help wherever necessary. Mr. Prabowo wants to reflect the nation's diversity through his policies and governance," Pigai told the press outside Prabowo's residence on Kertanegara Street, Central Jakarta.
When asked if he would assume the role of Human Rights Minister, Pigai responded, "I am willing to help, but I cannot comment or confirm anything until Mr. Prabowo makes an official announcement. I am prepared to assist in any capacity."
He downplayed the importance of the summons, saying, "This is not special. I've been called many times over the years. As for preparations, there's nothing in particular."
Other figures summoned by Prabowo included Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf, Golkar politician Nusron Wahid, State Secretary Pratikno, PAN politician Yandri Susanto, former Batang Regent Wihaji, Gerindra politicians Maruarar Sirait and Fadli Zon, PKB's Abdul Kadir Karding, and Democrat Party's Teuku Riefky Harsya. The meetings are believed to focus on the candidates' readiness to serve in ministerial roles.
Prabowo is expected to announce his cabinet shortly after his inauguration as Indonesia's 8th president on Oct. 20.
Reports suggest the cabinet will comprise 46 ministries, including 41 sectoral ministries and five coordinating ministries. The new ministries include the Forestry Ministry, Public Housing Ministry, Transmigration Ministry, Creative Economy Ministry, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Ministry, and Population and Family Development Ministry.
Other proposed ministries include the Migrant Worker Protection Ministry, Higher Education Ministry, Culture Ministry, Human Rights Ministry, and Immigration Ministry. A new coordinating ministry focused on social affairs is also anticipated.