Led by Bibit Waluyo, Former East Aceh Regent Becomes Purkadesi Executive

Former two-term East Aceh Regent, H. Hasballah bin HM Thaib, alias Rocky, has been officially inaugurated as the Head of the Tourism and Culture Division of the Indonesian Retired Regional Heads Association (Purkadesi) for the 2026-2031 term. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Interior Minister General (Ret.) Muhammad Tito Karnavian.

During the organisational declaration process, a pledge titled “National Commitment Statement” was recited, led by Advisory Board Chairman Lieutenant General (Ret.) Sutiyoso, Board of Trustees Chairman Soekarwo, and General Chairman General (Ret.) Bibit Waluyo. According to Rocky, his appointment is inseparable from his leadership track record during his tenure as East Aceh Regent from 2012 to 2022.

Meanwhile, General (Ret.) Bibit Waluyo emphasised that Purkadesi will remain within the national corridor and play an active role in safeguarding the direction of national development. “To keep it on track, sustainable, and oriented towards the people’s interests,” said Bibit in a press release in Jakarta on Wednesday (6/5/2026).

In his remarks, Interior Minister Tito stressed the importance of maintaining the organisation’s neutrality from practical politics and encouraging constructive policy contributions to the government. According to him, Purkadesi serves as a strategic platform for retired regional heads to continue contributing to national development.

Meanwhile, Rocky stated that under his leadership, East Aceh Regency achieved several significant accomplishments. “Among them, strengthening regional basic infrastructure, enhancing the agricultural and plantation sectors as the backbone of the community’s economy, reinforcing social stability post-conflict, and optimising local economic potential,” said Rocky.