The moment of togetherness between President Prabowo Subianto and the 5th President of Indonesia Megawati Soekarnoputri at the commemoration of Pancasila Day on Monday (1/6) garnered widespread attention. Chairman of the PDI Perjuangan DPP, Said Abdullah, assessed that the warm interaction was not merely ceremonial, but rather a manifestation of a deep friendship that has spanned decades.
According to Said, the relationship between these two national figures has stood the test of time, even since they ran together as presidential and vice-presidential candidates in the 2009 presidential election. Although the dynamics of national politics sometimes put them in opposing camps, their personal relationship remains maintained with high integrity.
"Their friendship is strong and transcends practical political affairs. This is clear proof that politics can be conducted in an elegant manner, oriented towards the interests of the nation and the state above all else," Said stated in his official release on Tuesday (2/6).
Furthermore, Said highlighted President Prabowo's trust in Megawati, who continues to hold key roles in BPIP and BRIN. This step, Said continued, proves that Prabowo highly respects Megawati's capacity and statesmanship, regardless of PDI Perjuangan's current stance as a critical partner or a counterbalance to the government.
This exemplary behavior is also believed to influence the legislative level, where the PDI Perjuangan and Gerindra factions in the House of Representatives (DPR RI) can continue to work together despite having different views. This creates a healthy political culture of mutual respect among national elites.
The iconic moment of holding hands at the Pancasila Building was viewed by Said as a symbol that the values of Pancasila have become the main bond in their relationship. Amidst the hustle and bustle of national politics, Prabowo and Megawati have shown that true friendship can still thrive on different political paths.
