Prabowo Requests Pindad to Design Special Presidential Vehicle
President Prabowo Subianto has requested PT Pindad to create a special design for a presidential vehicle that would facilitate his ability to shake hands with the public. This request was made during a speech at the launch of ,1061 Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperative outlets in Nganjuk Regency, East Java, last Saturday.
The request stemmed from Prabowo’s account of the enthusiasm shown by local communities who wish to shake hands with him whenever he visits various regions, including his recent trips to Nganut and Tuban Regencies in East Java. While Prabowo expressed that he was moved and delighted by the public’s enthusiasm, he admitted that the current process is quite exhausting.
“I am currently happy and moved by the visits to various regions. But, I must tell you, it is quite exhausting as well. Because so many people come out to the streets, it doesn’t look right for the President to remain hidden inside a vehicle,” said Prabowo. He explained that while inside his current vehicle, he often has to stand through the sunroof to greet and shake hands with the people. He felt it would be unfair to the citizens who wait for hours under the scorching sun.
“I am forced to stand, right? I stand so that our people can reach out their hands. How could I not? So, I try to shake hands. But, oh, the people of East Java, their hands are quite firm. It seems East Java has many farmers, doesn’t it?” he joked. He added that after several visits, the physical toll was significant, but he considered it a necessary risk given the public’s dedication.
Due to these difficulties, Prabowo requested the President Director of PT Pindad (Persero), Sigit Santosa, to design a special presidential car. He requested a design that utilises glass and seating in a way that allows the public to easily see him and shake his hand. “I am thinking about this; I will ask Pindad—where is Professor Sigit? Is he here? Please design a special car for the President, using glass, with seating, but where I can still be seen standing,” said Prabowo.