Called by Cabinet Secretary Teddy at 6:35 AM, Jusuf Hamka Reveals Prabowo's Message Regarding Wantimpres Appointment

Jakarta, VIVA – Toll road entrepreneur Jusuf Hamka, affectionately known as Babah Alun, has shared the story behind his visit to the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Friday (2/10/2026). He arrived following an invitation from the Cabinet Secretary, Teddy Indra Wijaya.

The invitation was received by Jusuf Hamka on Friday morning. He admitted to being surprised when he received a telephone call from Teddy at 06:35 WIB.

“At 6:35 AM, I was called by the Cabinet Secretary. I was shocked. I simply said, Alhamdulillah, Sir, that the country trusts me,” Jusuf Hamka told reporters.

During the conversation, Jusuf Hamka was informed that President Prabowo Subianto had requested his assistance in the President’s work as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council (Wantimpres).

“It is true, the President requested it,” Jusuf Hamka said, recounting the contents of his conversation with Cabinet Secretary Teddy on Friday morning.

For Jusuf Hamka, the request did not require complex consideration. He stated he is ready to carry out his duties if asked to assist the nation.

“If the country asks, it cannot be refused. We must serve,” said Jusaf Hamka.

He further expressed his hope that this assignment would be part of a collective effort to contribute to Indonesia.

“Let us build our beloved nation,” he continued.

Jusuf Hamka arrived at the Palace alongside several other figures who were also invited to the Wantimpres inauguration agenda. From approximately 14:30 WIB, figures began arriving one by one at the Presidential Palace Complex.

The attendees appeared in formal attire, wearing full suits and light blue ties. Some were also seen accompanied by family members, such as wives and children.

In addition to Jusuf Hamka, several notable figures were seen in attendance, including the former Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, Pratikno, and the former Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Hatta Rajasa.

Also present were the General Chairman of Muhammadiyah, Haedar Nashir; the former Governor of East Java, Soekarwo; entrepreneur Chairul Tanjung; the former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Anwar Usman; and the former Head of the State Intelligence Agency and former Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, Budi Gunawan.