Dino Patti Djalal Criticises Prabowo’s Frequent Foreign Trips as Presidential Palace Defends

Government Communication Agency (Bakom) RI Head M Qodari commented on criticism by former Deputy Foreign Minister Dino Patti Djalal regarding Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s frequent foreign visits.

Qodari explained that the President’s official trips as head of state bring significant benefits for Indonesia. ‘The principle of benefit is paramount for the President in making decisions, including foreign travel. The benefits are for the nation and country,’ Qodari told journalists on Sunday, 31 May 2026.

He cited the recent visit to France, which resulted in bilateral agreements in defence and education. ‘Numerous areas of cooperation were discussed there,’ he added.

Regarding criticism over potential budget wastage, Qodari stated the public must consider the benefits. ‘Again, the benefits must be weighed. We are confident that the gains from last week’s France visit are substantial and significant,’ he said.

Meanwhile, Dino Patti Djalal highlighted the frequency of President Prabowo’s foreign trips, stating the costs are substantial. ‘State visits incur significant costs, including advance team expenses, aircraft, hotel, logistics, catering, protocol and security, daily allowances for the delegation and support staff, among others. A single foreign trip can cost tens, even hundreds of billions of rupiah,’ Dino said on Sunday, 31 May 2026.

Dino proposed several suggestions for Prabowo to maintain international relations without foreign travel, including using video calls or telephone for communication and leveraging international forums to meet foreign leaders to save costs.