In a significant departure from months of limited interaction with the press, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto hosted a rare roundtable discussion with seven senior journalists at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor, West Java on April 6, 2025. The three-and-a-half-hour session, described as both formal and candid, marked a pivotal moment for an administration often criticized for its reticence toward media engagement. As concerns over press freedom and policy transparency continue to simmer, this encounter has sparked cautious optimism about the government’s willingness to address public scrutiny.
A Break from Silence
The meeting comes after widespread frustration over the lack of direct communication between Prabowo’s administration and the media since he took office. Critics have pointed to a perceived wall between the government and journalists, exacerbated by the President’s minimal public interactions and his aides’ apparent reluctance to engage. This roundtable, however, offered a glimpse of openness, with Prabowo fielding questions on some of the most contentious issues facing his presidency. 
Among the topics discussed was the controversial revision of the Indonesian Military (TNI) Law, which has drawn criticism for potentially reviving the military’s dual function—known as dwifungsi—a policy from the Suharto era that allowed the armed forces to play a significant role in civilian affairs. Prabowo, a former Army general, addressed these concerns head-on, though specifics of his assurances remain under scrutiny. If confirmed, his commitment to ensuring that active military officers in public office outside designated institutions resign or retire early could signal a safeguard against overreach. Yet, without concrete action, skepticism persists among analysts and the public alike.
Perhaps most striking was Prabowo’s self-assessment of his performance five months into his tenure. “I give myself a score of 6 [out of 10]. Still far from a 9, but [still a] passing grade” he said, offering a rare moment of humility for a leader often seen as guarded. He also issued an apology for a recent controversy involving Hasan Nasbi, head of the Presidential Communications Office, who made a dismissive remark about a threat to press freedom—a pig’s head sent to Tempo magazine’s office. Prabowo called the comment “careless” and took personal responsibility for the communication failures of his team.
Press Freedom Under the Spotlight
The gesture of hosting journalists at his private residence has been broadly welcomed as a step toward breaking down barriers between the government and the media. Indonesia’s press landscape, while vibrant, has faced challenges in recent years, with concerns about intimidation and restricted access to officials. Prabowo’s administration has maintained that press freedom remains intact, yet his limited direct engagement at public events has fueled perceptions of detachment.
This roundtable could serve as a turning point, provided it evolves into a regular forum. Observers argue that expanding such discussions to include a broader range of journalists—particularly those with critical perspectives—and hosting them in neutral venues could foster a more open dialogue. As one media analyst noted, the setting of a president’s private mansion, while symbolic of accessibility, may still inhibit the sharpness of questions posed by attendees.
Beyond the optics, the session highlighted a deeper issue: the administration’s struggle with effective communication. Prabowo’s aides have often mirrored his reticence, creating an impression of absence or lack of substance despite frequent public appearances. If the President’s stated focus is on delivering results over engaging in discourse, as he has suggested, the risk remains that key policies and intentions may be misunderstood or misrepresented without consistent messaging.
Policy Challenges Amid Global Uncertainty
The discussion also touched on broader challenges facing Indonesia, including the ripple effects of a global trade war sparked by US tariffs. With economic uncertainty looming and the specter of a global recession, Prabowo’s administration faces mounting pressure to formulate robust policies and reassure the public. The President’s visibility and ability to articulate a clear strategy will be critical in the months ahead, particularly as domestic economic and political missteps are often amplified in such a volatile international climate.
Critics have noted that government stumbles—whether on economic measures or legislative reforms like the TNI Law—are often treated as catastrophic, when better communication could mitigate public alarm. The amendment to the military law, for instance, has raised alarms about a return to authoritarian tendencies, though Prabowo has denied any intent to expand military influence in civilian spheres. If his administration is to dispel these fears, it must back rhetoric with tangible reforms, ensuring transparency in how such laws are implemented.
A Call for Listening and Accountability
More than just speaking, the roundtable underscored the importance of listening. Prabowo’s willingness to acknowledge shortcomings, as evidenced by his self-scoring and apology over his aide’s remarks, suggests an awareness of the need for improvement. However, translating this into action remains the true test. For instance, addressing concerns over the TNI Law requires not just assurances but verifiable steps to limit military overreach in governance.
The media, too, plays a role in this evolving dynamic. While the roundtable was a formal, on-camera event, the presence of only seven editors-in-chief—presumably from major outlets—limits the diversity of voices in the room. Expanding future forums to include independent journalists, regional media, and those who have been overtly critical of the administration could ensure a fuller spectrum of public concerns is addressed. Additionally, holding such events in a neutral space, rather than a personal residence, might encourage more unfiltered dialogue.
The Road Ahead for Transparency
This rare engagement also raises questions about the broader state of governance in Indonesia under Prabowo’s leadership. Transparency and accountability, often cited as cornerstones of democratic health, hinge on consistent interaction between leaders and the fourth estate. While the President and his team may argue that their focus is on substantive work over public relations, the reality is that effective governance requires both. Clarity in policy, empathy in delivery, and responsiveness to critique are not mere formalities—they shape public trust.
Indonesia stands at a critical juncture, navigating domestic reforms amid global economic headwinds. The impact of international trade disputes and potential recessions will test the administration’s mettle, demanding not just policy acumen but also the ability to rally public support. If Prabowo’s roundtable is to be more than a symbolic gesture, it must mark the beginning of a sustained commitment to openness.
As Indonesia watches closely, the hope is that this dialogue with the media becomes a regular fixture, evolving into a platform for genuine accountability. For now, the Hambalang meeting offers a flicker of promise, but the true measure of progress will lie in whether words translate into lasting change. With global and local challenges mounting, the question remains: can Prabowo’s administration bridge the gap between rhetoric and reality?
