Hasto Highlights Solo-born Character Prakasa Kitabuming in 'Ghost in the Cell'

The Secretary-General of PDI Perjuangan, Hasto Kristiyanto, has highlighted the character Prakasa Kitabuming in the film ‘Ghost in the Cell’, directed by Joko Anwar. He noted that Anwar is clever in creating the character, which carries symbolic meaning through its name, origin, and prisoner registration number.

In the film, Prakasa Kitabuming is depicted as a prisoner from Solo, described as a businessman involved in deforestation. “Joko Anwar very intelligently conveys how there are entrepreneurs who are so greedy that even when arrested and imprisoned for corruption, this businessman, Prakarsa Kitabuming, continues to enjoy extraordinary luxury. The social criticism is also present in his origin from Solo and his registration number, 21061961. This is an intellectually stimulating film,” said Hasto after attending a screening held as part of Bung Karno Month in Central Jakarta on Sunday.

Hasto stated that the film is filled with social criticism and urged PDI Perjuangan members to watch it to understand the messages conveyed. He remarked that the film serves as a reminder that Indonesia must avoid the scenarios depicted in ‘Ghost in the Cell’.

Hasto further assessed that the film reflects the spirit of resistance once championed by Sukarno against capitalism and imperialism, which he believes continues to emerge in new forms. “This inspires us during Bung Karno Month to remain faithful to moral values, idealism, and ethics in our collective life, as we aspire to something great,” he added.

During the same event, the Head of the National Culture Agency for PDI Perjuangan, Once Mekel, explained that the screening was a form of appreciation for national creative works and a way to maintain the spirit of Sukarno’s ideas. He noted that the month commemorates Sukarno’s birth on 6 June 1901, stating that the commemoration is not merely about remembering the past, but about keeping his enduring ideas and spirit alive.