Former KSAD Dudung Makes Sudden Visit to Presidential Palace This Afternoon

Special Advisor to the President on National Defence, Dudung Abdurachman, suddenly visited the Presidential Palace after stating he had been asked to meet President Prabowo Subianto on the afternoon of Tuesday (21/4). Dudung claimed he did not yet know the exact agenda to be discussed in the meeting. Observations by CNNIndonesia.com showed that Dudung, also a former KSAD, arrived at the Palace complex around 14:30 WIB. He said the summons was conveyed through the president’s aide the previous night. “Last night, I was called by the aide saying that the gentleman (President) would meet the President at 3 pm today,” Dudung said. He explained that as a presidential advisor, he is often asked for views on various issues, although he did not know the specific topic to be discussed this time. “I don’t know yet, earlier I am the President’s Advisor, of course there might be things he asks for advice and input on. Usually, he likes to ask for advice and input from us as advisors,” he said. Dudung hinted that the discussion in the meeting might cover strategic issues, both in the national and international spheres. He also did not rule out discussions related to global geopolitical dynamics. Nevertheless, he refrained from revealing further the material to be presented to the Head of State and said he would explain it after the meeting was over. “That I will convey to him later. After returning, then I will convey it,” Dudung said. On that occasion, Dudung also responded to several issues that have recently attracted attention, including the blanket overflight discourse and defence cooperation with the United States (US). He assessed that Prabowo has a broader understanding of those issues and will discuss them directly in the meeting. In addition, he emphasised that airspace violations without permission are not allowed according to international law.