JAKARTA, Oct 25 (Reuters) – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s newly-appointed cabinet kicked off a mountain retreat on Friday, aiming to strengthen bonds among the more than 100 members of his government. The ministers and their deputies wore military fatigues and black combat boots, participating in an unconventional team-building exercise.
At a military academy in Central Java, the ministers saluted on the parade ground as Prabowo, a former special forces commander and Indonesia’s eighth president, addressed them. He had been sworn in just a few days earlier on Sunday.
“We must synchronize our efforts and pursue shared objectives. The government operates as a team, not in isolation,” Prabowo emphasized. His office released a statement that included images of the retreat, which features ministers camping in tents equipped with air-conditioning.
One photo captured the ministers lined up, lunging forward as part of stretching exercises. Prabowo highlighted the importance of discipline and loyalty, stating, “The essence of our work is discipline, loyalty to the nation of Indonesia,” prompting applause from his cabinet members.
The three-day camp’s agenda remains largely undisclosed. However, Prabowo plans to lead physical exercises and discussions on good governance and strategies to combat corruption. This cabinet is Indonesia’s largest in decades, comprising 48 ministers and 56 deputies.
The lineup is a mix of politicians, technocrats, former military officers, and a religious leader, with ages ranging from 34 to 77. Most members fall within their 50s and 60s, showcasing a blend of experience and youthful energy.
Prabowo’s victory in February’s election marked his third attempt at the presidency, winning by a significant margin. The camp evokes memories of his early military career, during which he served for nearly thirty years.
His political party, Gerindra, has previously organized similar events at Prabowo’s expansive Hambalang estate, located south of Jakarta. These gatherings are part of his strategy to foster unity and discipline among his team.
Videos shared on Instagram captured ministers enjoying the journey to the camp in Magelang aboard a Lockheed Martin Super Hercules aircraft. The footage portrayed their excitement and camaraderie.
One clip showed ministers clapping enthusiastically as the plane touched down. Agrarian Affairs Minister Nusron Wahid expressed his enthusiasm in a video posted by a fellow minister, holding prayer beads and exclaiming, “It’s great!”
The retreat serves as a unique opportunity for the new cabinet to bond outside the usual political setting. Prabowo aims to instill a strong sense of teamwork and shared purpose within his administration.
During the camp, the ministers will participate in various activities designed to enhance their collaboration. Prabowo’s leadership style emphasizes discipline, a principle he hopes to engrain in his team.
As they navigate this retreat, the cabinet members will engage in discussions about governance challenges facing Indonesia. Prabowo’s approach combines physical exercises with strategic planning.
By fostering close relationships among his ministers, Prabowo seeks to create a cohesive team ready to tackle the nation’s pressing issues. This retreat reflects his military background and commitment to discipline.
The event marks a significant departure from typical governmental retreats, underscoring Prabowo’s unconventional leadership methods. His aim is to cultivate loyalty and dedication among his cabinet.
In an era where unity is crucial, Prabowo’s retreat stands as a proactive measure to ensure his administration operates harmoniously. The combination of physical activity and governance discussions aims to set a strong foundation for the government’s future endeavors.
As the cabinet members bond in the serene mountain environment, they also prepare to face the challenges ahead. Prabowo’s leadership promises a new chapter for Indonesia, built on teamwork and shared goals.
