Indonesian Politician Criticizes Ex-Official's Remarks on President's Foreign Trips

Habiburokhman, Deputy Chairman of the Gerindra Party, has strongly criticized former Deputy Foreign Minister Dino Patti Djalal's recent commentary on President Prabowo Subianto's foreign travel. Habiburokhman labeled Dino's remarks as "unconstructive" and "unethical," asserting that they were not based on accurate information and appeared to be politically motivated attacks.

"In an era of democracy and openness, of course, we are always open to criticism, including from former high-ranking officials like Dino Patti Djalal. However, as a fellow countryman, I must criticize Dino back," Habiburokhman stated in a written release on Tuesday. He argued that Dino's criticism was unproductive, potentially a "blind political attack," and merely mocked the Prabowo administration.

Habiburokhman also found Dino's suggestion for Prabowo to invite more foreign leaders to Indonesia to be peculiar. He pointed to the current global uncertainty, citing Donald Trump's need to visit China to advocate for U.S. interests. "In our view, President Prabowo should be very proactive, both in receiving visits and in visiting other leaders," Habiburokhman added.

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In an era of democracy and openness, of course, we are always open to criticism, including from former high-ranking officials like Dino Patti Djalal. However, as a fellow countryman, I must criticize Dino back.

He further contended that it is unethical for Dino, as a former Deputy Foreign Minister, to criticize the current administration's foreign policy. Habiburokhman noted that in developed nations, former officials often refrain from criticizing their successors out of respect for those currently in office. Such criticism, he warned, could backfire if the public compares the performance of the former official with the incumbent.

Dino Patti Djalal had previously voiced concerns about the frequency of President Prabowo Subianto's international visits since taking office. In a video post, Dino suggested a reduction in these trips and greater use of virtual diplomacy, citing public attention to the travel patterns. He stated he felt a moral responsibility to share his views, given Prabowo had awarded him the Bintang Mahaputera, signifying trust in his judgment on foreign policy.

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In our view, President Prabowo should be very proactive, both in receiving visits and in visiting other leaders.