Explanation from Anies' Side Regarding Attendance at SBY's "Open House" Despite Not Being Invited

Jakarta, Kompas.com - Anies Baswedan’s spokesperson, Sahrin Hamid, provided an explanation regarding Anies attending the open house event of the sixth President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) in Cikeas, West Java, on Saturday (21/3/2026), even though he was not invited.

Sahrin referenced Democratic Party Secretary General Herman Khaeron’s very positive response to Anies’ arrival.

“I think Kang Hero (Herman Khaeron, Democratic Party Secretary General) has already given a very good response. The context is silaturahmi amid the Eid al-Fitr moment,” Sahrin told Kompas.com on Thursday (26/3/2026).

Sahrin elaborated that in Islam, silaturahmi is a highly recommended practice.

“Therefore, this silaturahmi momentum should be viewed as part of muamalat as a Muslim,” he added.

Herzaky stated that essentially, SBY was holding an open house for the Eid al-Fitr 2026 halal bihalal.

“Pak SBY is having an open house. Anyone who comes to silaturahmi with him and his extended family is certainly welcomed warmly. It’s the Lebaran moment,” said Herzaky.

Herzaky acknowledged that among the guests present was Anies Baswedan.

Anies himself was actually not invited to SBY’s open house.

“One of those present is indeed Mas Anies. Like the other guests, he was certainly received well by Mr SBY as the host,” he explained.

“Yes (Anies was actually not invited),” Herzaky emphasised.

He also stressed that there were no special discussions with anyone during the Lebaran in Cikeas, including Anies.

“No need to interpret it or take it anywhere. Especially directing it towards future coalition plans or election matters. That’s thinking too far ahead,” said Herzaky.