Dasco Responds to Dino Patti Djalal's Criticism Regarding Prabowo's Overseas Visits

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR), Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, believes that constructive and substantial criticisms should be taken into consideration. However, he noted that criticisms intended merely to incite public unrest are unnecessary. This statement was made in response to criticisms levelled by Dino Patti Djalal regarding the frequency of overseas visits undertaken by President Prabowo Subianto.

“Restrictions, especially those relating to the number and timing of visits, I believe are not substantive,” Dasco told reporters at the DPR Building on Wednesday. He explained that the high intensity of the Head of State’s overseas visits is fundamentally based on necessity and requirement, particularly amidst current global dynamics. It is undeniable that global developments have a direct impact on domestic affairs.

Prabowo’s frequent visits to various countries are viewed as a strategy and approach used to maintain international relations and secure Indonesia’s interests. Therefore, Dasco stated that the frequency of overseas visits should not be questioned. “The President certainly has strategies that cannot be limited by a fixed schedule of a specific number of visits. It is dynamic,” he said.

He added, “If we look at the President’s departures abroad, they are for short durations, only as necessary, to discuss essential matters, and then he returns.”

Consequently, he urged the public to provide constructive and substantial input, as such feedback is more useful than inciting controversy. “Let us provide substantive input, and space for that will certainly be provided. In my view, if the input concerns geopolitical substance, I agree that it should be considered. Why not accept good suggestions?” Dasco concluded.