Purbaya Responds to Prabowo's Inquiry Regarding the US Dollar at Halim

Purbaya did not provide specific details regarding the exchange rate, noting that the value of the rupiah falls under the authority of Bank Indonesia. When questioned, he stated that Indonesia’s economic foundations are good so far.

“Oh, the dollar is the central bank’s responsibility; we are just discussing that the economic foundation is good, that is all,” said Purbaya following a limited meeting at the Palace in Jakarta on Monday (18/5/2026).

Previously, President Prabowo had questioned the condition of the US dollar to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa. The moment occurred following a ceremony for the handover of several defence equipment and weaponry to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI).

The handover ceremony at the Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base in Jakarta took place on Monday (18/5). Prabowo was seen gathering and engaging in dialogue with various officials after the photo session.

Present at the location were Foreign Minister Sugiono, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, Coordinating Minister for Politics and Security Djamari Chaniago, Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, and TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto. Several leaders from Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR) were also seen conversing, including the Chairman of Commission I Utut Adianto, Vice Chairman Budi Djiwandono, and Anton Sukartuno.

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, and Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas Rachmat Pambudy were also in the vicinity, observing the discussions.

As he was preparing to depart, Prabowo shook hands with each official present. When shaking hands with Purbaya, Prabowo briefly posed a question regarding the condition of the US dollar. Purbaya’s immediate reaction to the question was not captured.

“How is the dollar?” Prabowo asked.

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, standing behind Prabowo, interjected by mentioning that Purbaya was preparing to depart for the Hajj pilgrimage.

“He is about to go on Hajj, Sir,” Sjafrie remarked, pointing towards Purbaya.

“Going on Hajj?” Prabowo replied.