Political Observer Says Cabinet Secretary Teddy Courageous for Standing Firm Amid Criticism

Cabinet Secretary (Seskab) Teddy Indra Wijaya has become a prominent figure amidst public criticism of President Prabowo Subianto’s administration. He is regarded as courageous in defending and explaining the government’s direction and vision, including asserting that the administration welcomes criticism.

Political communication observer and Executive Director of Survey and Polling Indonesia (SPIN), Igor Dirgantara, assessed that Teddy’s role has become increasingly prominent because he stands at the forefront while many others choose to exercise caution or distance themselves from policy controversies. According to him, this approach demonstrates both courage and consistency in fulfilling the Cabinet Secretary’s function as a bridge between the President and the public.

“Essentially, the Cabinet Secretary is capable of executing his function as a mediator of the President’s policies to society. And this is appreciated by the public,” Igor stated in his remarks on Monday (9 March 2026).

Igor noted that Teddy frequently appears when various criticisms emerge. When the public criticised the Free Nutritious Meals programme (MBG), for instance, Teddy provided explanations to the public with clarity. This step is regarded as an act of courage to remain standing in the public sphere while the government faces criticism.

“Amid the dynamics of criticism towards government policies, the Cabinet Secretary’s presence in directly explaining the President’s perspective helps the public understand the full intent of the policies,” Igor said.

Furthermore, Igor explained that Teddy’s communication with the public is not merely about defending the government administration. Rather, it is about ensuring that the President’s overarching vision is not distorted by various narratives circulating in the public sphere.

Additionally, Teddy directly understands the direction of policies and the President’s priorities. In this way, the explanations provided become an important reference point in understanding the government’s official position.

“This role is important so that the public obtains a complete picture regarding the purpose of the policies adopted by the President,” Igor added.

Igor noted that Teddy’s presence as a consistent figure in explaining the President’s vision is an important necessity in modern governance. This is because not all officials are willing to assume a communication role amid the pressure of public criticism.

“In the context of political communication, the presence of a figure capable of directly explaining the President’s vision is indeed an important necessity,” he explained.

Igor emphasised that the Cabinet Secretary’s involvement in conveying policy explanations can be viewed as part of efforts to strengthen government transparency.

He assessed that active communication reflects that the Cabinet Secretary not only carries out the government’s administrative function, but plays a strategic role in ensuring that the President’s message and vision are conveyed clearly to society.

“The public thus gains access to clearer information regarding the direction of the President’s policies,” he concluded.