Citing 'Win Without Belittling' Philosophy, MPR Speaker: True Victory Does Not Humiliate

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani has stressed the importance of preserving national unity through justice, exemplary conduct, and ethical dialogue. He reminded the audience that criticism and differences of opinion must not be allowed to damage the nation’s cohesion. The remarks were made during his opening speech at the MPR Annual Session, held jointly with the DPR and DPD at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday (14/8). “Unity must be nurtured daily through justice, exemplary conduct, dialogue, and mutual trust. Therefore, safeguarding unity means safeguarding justice. Criticism must not be used to tear unity apart; conversely, unity must not be used to silence dissent,” Muzani stated before President Prabowo Subianto and other state officials. The Gerindra Party politician quoted a Javanese leadership philosophy to remind all elements of the nation and political contestants to act wisely in managing differences. Muzani cited the philosophy ‘Nglurug Tanpo Bolo, Sekti Tanpo Aji-Aji, Sugih Tanpo Bondho, Menang Tanpo Ngasorake’ (Advancing without troops, powerful without amulets, rich without wealth, and winning without belittling). He elaborated that true victory is not one that leaves wounds on fellow countrymen, but rather one that maintains brotherhood, without insulting, bullying, or humiliating those with differing views. Muzani urged both the public and political elites to make mutual respect a guiding principle in national life. He emphasised that political maturity and communication in the public sphere are the main fortresses for preserving national unity amidst diverse perspectives.