Jakarta. The leadership dispute within the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) is nearing resolution following a meeting between Arsjad Rasjid, the chairman elected at the 2021 national conference, and Anindya Bakrie, who was appointed in an extraordinary congress on Sept. 14. The meeting was facilitated by Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia in Jakarta on Friday.

During the discussion, Arsjad and Anindya agreed to find a solution to the division within Kadin. Bahlil, who described the two as long-time friends with a shared commitment to advancing Indonesia’s business sector, posed the question of whether Kadin should remain a unified organization. Both leaders responded positively.

“There can only be one Kadin, not two. Agreed?” Bahlil asked.

“Agreed,” Arsjad and Anindya replied together, placing their hands in unison.

As for who is the current legitimate chairman of Kadin, Vice Chairman Yukki Nugrahawan said an official statement clarifying the outcome of the meeting would be issued on Monday.

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The atmosphere of the meeting was described as warm, with Arsjad and Anindya engaging in deep discussions. Arsjad expressed his appreciation for Bahlil’s role in facilitating peaceful negotiations.

“Anin and I sat down with Bahlil. We listened to each other and had productive discussions,” Arsjad said.

He emphasized that Kadin will continue its role as a strategic partner to the government, focusing on inclusive, sustainable, and equitable economic growth for all Indonesians. He is confident that the spirit of unity will lead Kadin toward a better future.

“With teamwork, we can face future economic challenges as one Kadin, one Indonesia, and one brighter future for the nation,” Arsjad said.

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Anindya Bakrie echoed similar sentiments, expressing his hope for Kadin to contribute even more to the country’s progress.

“Thank you, Mr. Minister, and Mr. Arsjad. Let’s continue to make Kadin even better than before,” Anindya remarked.

The leadership dispute began when Anindya Bakrie was elected as chairman through the extraordinary congress on Sept. 14, reigniting dual leadership within Kadin. Arsjad  is still set to complete his term as chairman until 2026. 

Anindya's camp accused Arsjad of violating Kadin's principle of impartiality, following Arsjad's recent role in leading the presidential campaign for Ganjar Pranowo, who lost the February election.

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