Magelang — President Prabowo Subianto arrived at Adi Sucipto Airport in Yogyakarta at 16:06 WIB before continuing by road to the Military Academy in Magelang, where he is set to train members of the Merah Putih Cabinet on Thursday (Oct. 24).

Along the route, residents, including students, lined the streets waving Indonesian flags. Some held banners featuring photos of Prabowo, one of which read, “Work Sincerely, Mr. President Prabowo.”

Riding in the MV3 Garuda Limousine, a domestically-produced presidential vehicle by PT Pindad, Prabowo greeted the welcoming crowd from atop the car.

Prabowo’s journey from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in Jakarta took about 1.5 hours. Cabinet ministers and deputy ministers had arrived earlier. They are set to undergo a briefing and training session from October 25 to 27, 2024, which includes camping in tents.

During the Merah Putih Cabinet plenary session on Wednesday (Oct. 23), Prabowo explained the rationale for holding the training in Magelang. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and courage, qualities he believes are crucial for the government’s work.

“We will spend a few days in additional briefings, then hold coordination meetings in Magelang, Central Java,” Prabowo stated on Wednesday.

Prabowo highlighted that Magelang holds historical significance as a center of resistance against colonialism. He hopes that the spirit of bravery exhibited in the region can inspire his cabinet members.

“Magelang is a historic site of our resistance against colonial powers, notably known for the struggle of Prince Diponegoro among the five surrounding mountains. I believe this place carries an aura of courage, heroism, and patriotism,” Prabowo explained.

In the inaugural cabinet meeting, Prabowo also stressed the importance of boldness. He urged ministers not to hesitate in providing the best service to the people, as government bureaucracy is often seen as a hindrance rather than a help.

“There’s a saying, ‘If it can be made difficult, why make it easy?’ I ask the ministers to be brave and not hesitate to offer the best service to our people. If you’re dissatisfied with your officials, report them, and we will replace them immediately,” Prabowo asserted.

“There are many willing to serve. No one here is untouchable. If you’re not loyal or not working hard for the nation, I give you the authority to dismiss them and send them home rather than create more problems for us,” Prabowo concluded. (RR)