Fadli Zon Reveals Longstanding Prabowo-Ryamizard Bond Since 1974 Military Academy

Culture Minister Fadli Zon revealed the close relationship between President Prabowo Subianto and the late General TNI (Retired) Ryamizard Ryacudu, which dates back to their military education days.

According to Fadli, their bond formed when both were cadets at the Military Academy (Akmil) and graduated in the same year, 1974.

He made the remarks after paying respects at Ryamizard Ryacudu’s resting place at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Central Jakarta on Monday, 1 June 2026.

Prabowo Pays Final Tribute to Ryamizard

Fadli stated that President Prabowo holds great respect for the late Ryamizard Ryacudu due to their decades-long personal connection.

He explained that the President knew Ryamizard not only as a fellow soldier but also as a comrade-in-arms since their cadet days.

“President Prabowo expressed deep respect for the late Ryamizard as he has known him personally since their academy days,” Fadli Zon said.

Fadli viewed the President’s final tribute at Ryamizard’s funeral as a symbol of their emotional closeness.

He noted the moment demonstrated the President’s high regard for the former Chief of Staff of the Army (KSAD).

“That reflects his closeness to the late Mr Ryamizard Ryacudu,” he added.

A Firm and Straightforward Figure

In Fadli Zon’s view, Ryamizard was known as a decisive leader with strong character in all decisions and statements.

Fadli said Ryamizard was accustomed to speaking directly without much preamble.

“He is straightforward, always speaking his mind plainly,” Fadli remarked.

This character, he added, earned Ryamizard a reputation for integrity and respect, particularly within military circles.

Fadli considered Ryamizard’s firmness an important leadership legacy to be passed on to future generations.

He expressed hope that Ryamizard’s ideas, policies, and examples would inspire future Indonesian leaders.