Deputy Interior Minister Emphasises the Importance of Leaders Having a Strong Ideological Foundation

This was conveyed at the book review event for ‘Babad Alas’ at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) of Diponegoro University (Undip) in Semarang, Central Java, on Tuesday (12/5). “Leaders are often faced with difficult choices; we can opt for comfort or take risks, but I choose to take risks when I am convinced of those values of advocacy,” he stated in a written remark on Tuesday (12/5/2026). Based on his experience leading Bogor City for a decade, Bima considers steadfast adherence to ideology as the key to resolving complex issues in bureaucracy and society. He exemplified his courage in limiting alcohol sales permits in nightlife venues to protect the younger generation, despite pressure from various parties. Additionally, the principle of inclusivity was cited as the foundation for resolving long-standing conflicts over the establishment of places of worship. Furthermore, Bima stated that ideology alone is insufficient without strategies to build public hope and form a solid bureaucratic team. In human resource management, he prioritises character, loyalty, and militancy over technical competence when selecting officials. “When choosing department heads, for me, character is number one. Manners are number one. Only then come competence and so on,” he explained. To maintain consistency in these values, Bima implements moral strengthening through direct involvement with the community, dialogue with activists, and positioning the family as the last bastion in safeguarding integrity. He views critical values in the family environment as essential to prevent deviations, including gratuities. On that occasion, Bima also advised students to prepare themselves from an early stage to become future leaders. He reminded them that leadership tenure passes very quickly and must be utilised with full dedication and a spirit of service. “And for those of you who will become leaders or aspire to be leaders, do not miss that moment. Because ten years pass very quickly. Prepare for the moment when you become a leader. When you are leading, do it with passion,” he emphasised.