Prabowo Bars Media from DPRD Retreat Session, Signals Sensitive Message
Magelang. President Prabowo Subianto on Saturday ordered a closed-door session with regional legislative council (DPRD) leaders during a national retreat in Magelang, asking journalists to leave the venue so he could speak candidly “from the heart” about pressing issues facing the country.
The instruction came during the Regional Leadership Consolidation Course (KPPD) retreat at the Indonesian Military Academy, where 503 DPRD chairpersons from across Indonesia gathered for a five-day program running from April 15 to 19.
“Sorry, journalists, because there are issues in the world right now,” Prabowo said, signaling the start of a closed session after his opening remarks.
Earlier, the president had explained his decision to attend the forum in person despite suggestions from aides to delegate the task, citing the strategic role of DPRD leaders in regional governance.
In his speech, Prabowo stressed his intention to speak openly and honestly, even if his remarks risked making some participants uncomfortable.
“Today I want to speak from the heart. I want to speak as it is. Perhaps what I say may not please everyone, some may feel offended or saddened,” he said.
He described the attending DPRD leaders as patriots with a responsibility to defend public interests, arguing that such a role required direct and unfiltered guidance from the head of state.
“If it is true that you are here as sons and daughters of the nation, and that you are eager to hear my direction, then I must speak frankly,” he added.
Prabowo did not disclose the substance of his closed-door briefing, which proceeded without media access.
The retreat is designed to strengthen the capacity and integrity of regional legislative leaders, with sessions covering national insight, governance ethics, and coordination between central and local governments. The program is part of broader efforts to cultivate statesmanship among regional leaders and reinforce national values ahead of Indonesia’s long-term development goals, including the “Golden Indonesia 2045” vision.
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