PRESIDENT PRABOWO’S MEETING AT KERTANEGARA FOCUSES ON FINANCE AND PEACE DIPLOMACY

By KUSNANDAR & CO., Attorneys at Law – Jakarta, INDONESIA

The routine meeting led by President General (Ret.) Prabowo Subianto at his private residence on Jalan Kertanegara on Sunday evening (October 12, 2025) was far from an ordinary agenda. With the presence of Vice President Gibran Rakabuming and several ministers from the Merah Putih Cabinet, this gathering sent a strong signal about two strategic issues that are currently the government’s main focus: the stability of the national financial system and Indonesia’s role in international peacekeeping missions.

 

Discussions on the financial and banking system reflect the government’s awareness of global challenges impacting the domestic economy. The policy on managing export proceeds (DHE) under review demonstrates efforts to strengthen the management of the country’s financial resources in a more effective and accountable manner. In a global economy rife with uncertainty, the management of foreign exchange reserves is crucial to maintaining monetary stability and Indonesia’s competitiveness.

 

Furthermore, the directive to prepare peacekeeping forces for deployment to Palestine, should a peace agreement be reached at the Egypt Summit, underscores Indonesia’s active diplomatic stance on the international stage. This approach reflects the country’s commitment to contributing to regional and global stability, while enhancing Indonesia’s image as a nation concerned with humanitarian issues and global peace.

 

This routine meeting also highlights President Prabowo’s intensive leadership style, directly overseeing government operations. Frequent meetings like these enable the government to swiftly adjust policies and ensure priority programs remain on track.

 

However, the lack of detailed disclosure regarding specific discussion points raises questions. Are there sensitive issues being deliberated behind closed doors? Or is this a communication strategy to maintain stability and caution amidst complex political and economic dynamics?

 

What is clear from this Kertanegara meeting is the government’s readiness to face significant challenges both domestically and internationally. Strengthening the financial system and preparing for peacekeeping roles are two critical priorities requiring full support from all elements of society.

 

Moving forward, it is important for the public to receive more transparent information to better understand the government’s strategic steps in maintaining economic stability while fulfilling a responsible diplomatic role.

 

Moreover, managing export proceeds is not a simple matter amid a volatile global economy. Trade wars, commodity price fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions directly affect the rupiah’s exchange rate and the country’s foreign reserves. In this context, export proceeds management policies must anticipate such risks while maximizing their potential contribution to monetary stability and financial liquidity.

 

The government must ensure transparency and accountability mechanisms in managing these funds to prevent market distortions or loss of investor confidence. Strengthening oversight institutions and utilizing digital technology for real-time reporting could be progressive steps. This is also essential for aligning export proceeds policies with ongoing structural reforms, such as developing export-oriented manufacturing industries and enhancing domestic product value.

 

On the other hand, Indonesia’s role in international peacekeeping demonstrates commendable courage and diplomatic responsibility. However, deploying troops requires thorough consideration beyond politics, including legal frameworks and operational readiness of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). Any peacekeeping deployment must follow existing legislative procedures, including parliamentary approval, and be supported by specialized training to ensure professionalism and risk minimization.

 

From a diplomatic perspective, Indonesia’s involvement in peacekeeping missions presents a strategic opportunity to strengthen its position as a key actor in Southeast Asia and on the global stage. It can expand partnerships, open dialogue channels, and reinforce Indonesia’s image as a country prioritizing peace and international justice. However, this effort demands adequate human resources, sufficient budgets, and solid inter-agency coordination for effective and sustainable implementation.

 

President Prabowo’s leadership style, characterized by frequent and intensive meetings, is a valuable asset in maintaining government continuity. This hands-on approach allows for quick, responsive decision-making, especially in a dynamic environment requiring frequent policy adjustments. However, this should be balanced with open communication mechanisms to provide the public with sufficient information and prevent speculation that could disrupt social and political stability.

 

While some confidentiality about specific issues is understandable for security reasons, excessive secrecy risks closing off public dialogue. In a healthy democracy, transparency strengthens legitimacy and public trust in government. Therefore, the government must strike a balance between protecting strategic information and providing adequate transparency to the public.

 

Ultimately, the meeting at Kertanegara reflects the government’s efforts to address contemporary challenges with a dual focus on economic strengthening and active peace diplomacy. Success in these areas depends heavily on institutional synergy, the involvement of all societal elements, and the courage to make sound decisions grounded in law and good governance principles.

 

Accordingly, the public and stakeholders are encouraged to continue monitoring and supporting the government’s measures to achieve sustainable and dignified national goals.

K&Co - October 13, 2025