PDIP Explains the Significance of Prabowo and Megawati's Close Relationship

The Chairman of the PDI Perjuangan Central Executive Board, Said Abdullah, has explained the significance of the moment when President Prabowo Subianto and PDI Perjuante Chairman Megawati Soekarnoputri held hands during the Pancasila Day Commemoration on 1 June. He stated that this display of warmth is a manifestation of a deep relationship between the two figures that has transcended practical political boundaries.

According to Said, the relationship between Megawati and Prabowo cannot be viewed through the lens of momentary politics, but should instead be understood through three fundamental aspects. The first aspect is a long-standing friendship spanning decades; the two previously ran together as a presidential and vice-presidential pair in the 2009 election. Despite changing political contests, including when PDI Perjuangan supported Joko Widodo in 2014 and 2019, their bond has remained intact. “Their friendship is robust, not merely a superficial connection often perceived by the public. Their friendship is sincere and without flaw,” Said stated in a written release on Tuesday.

The second aspect concerns Megawati’s current roles as the Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the Agency for the Strengthening of Pancasila Ideology (BPIP) and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). Said emphasised that despite the national leadership transition and PDI Perjuangan’s position outside the government, President Prabowo has continued to entrust these strategic positions to Megawati. This move is seen as evidence that both leaders prioritise national ideology over party interests. “Both share the view that state institutions like BPIP must be led by statesmen who possess the tenacity to instil Pancasila values. Matters of Pancasila transcend all else,” explained Said.

The third aspect is the foundation of national politics. Said asserted that PDI Perjuangan’s choice to act as a balancing force (opposition) does not lead President Prabowo to view them as enemies. He cited President Prabowo’s speech at the DPR Building on 20 May, where the Head of State openly respected and appreciated the input and criticism provided by PDI Perjuangan members in parliament. “To me, these two figures have reached a level of ‘politics beyond’—politics for the nation and state, rather than solely for power. These three foundations are why the relationship between Mrs Megawati and President Prabowo remains enduring and untarnished, despite differing political directions,” said the Chairman of the DPR Budget Committee.

Said expressed hope that the example set by Megawati and Prabowo could be emulated by all party ranks, particularly between factions in the DPR RI. He hopes that the fluid relationship demonstrated at the highest level will foster a healthy communication climate in parliament, allowing factions to discuss and exchange views on government policies and programmes effectively.