Jokowi Recounts Invitation from Panglima Jilah to Star in Dayak Film

Former President Joko Widodo recounted the invitation from Panglima Jilah, leader of the Pasukan Merah Tariu Borneo Bengkulu Rajaking (TBBR) from the Kanayatan Dayak tribe, to star in a historical film centred on Dayak culture. Jokowi joked about his acting abilities should he actually participate in the film.

Jokowi said that if he were to act in the film, he would need to first learn the basics of acting. ‘If asked to act, I’ll need to train first,’ he told journalists upon arriving at his residence in Sumber, Banjarsari subdistrict, Solo, Central Java, on Monday, 25 May 2026.

The former Mayor of Solo said he has no issue with acting in the film if asked. He stated he is ready for any role, from lead to extra. ‘Ready for lead role, supporting role, or extra,’ he said with a smile.

Jokowi said Panglima Jilah directly conveyed the plan during a recent visit to his Solo residence. During the meeting, they also discussed culture and national issues. ‘Yes, he spoke to me like that,’ Jokowi said when asked if the acting invitation was indeed extended to him.

However, Jokowi has not elaborated further on the possibility of his involvement in the epic film project. He gave a brief response when asked if many others had invited him to act. ‘Yes, like that,’ he said succinctly.

Previously, Panglima Jilah and his delegation visited Jokowi’s Solo residence on Wednesday, 20 May 2026. Besides paying respects, Panglima Jilah invited Jokowi to attend a Dayak customary ceremony in Kalimantan next August.

During the meeting, they discussed culture and broader national issues. Panglima Jilah also revealed he invited Jokowi to star in a Dayak epic film depicting the tribe’s historical past and its connection to Majapahit. He stated that Jokowi is slated to play the lead role. ‘His role must be the main one,’ Panglima Jilah said at the time.