Chairman of the Majelis Syuro of the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), Salim Segaf Aljufri, expressed his confidence that President-elect Prabowo Subianto can lead Indonesia to become a regional leader in ASEAN. Salim conveyed this during his visit to Prabowo’s residence at Jalan Kertanegara No. 4, South Jakarta, on Friday afternoon (October 11).
Salim emphasized the importance of unity among all national components, especially in addressing global conflicts that could impact Indonesia.
“Looking at the current global situation—the uncertainty, conflicts like those in Russia and Ukraine, and the Zionist aggression against the Palestinian people—we need to come together and think comprehensively about how this great nation can face such challenges, as the impact will certainly be felt here,” Salim stated.
He highlighted Indonesia’s potential as a major nation, with its vast natural resources and large population, and said that Indonesia should aim to lead the ASEAN region.
“As a large nation, both in terms of territory and population, and with our natural wealth, we should strive to be the leader in this region. I believe Prabowo Subianto is capable of being that leader,” Salim added.
Salim also linked Indonesia’s leadership role with the importance of supporting Palestine’s right to independence, recalling the strong historical ties between the two nations.
“If that leadership is realized, I am confident that our beloved nation will not be forgotten by Palestine. They have the right to achieve their independence, just as when we gained ours, they were the first to recognize and support Indonesian independence,” Salim said.
To mark the strong relationship between Prabowo and PKS, Salim recited a special pantun (a traditional Indonesian poem), reflecting the deep bond between Prabowo and the party.
“PKS’s relationship with Mr. Prabowo Subianto is long-standing and profound—a bond of the heart that runs very deep,” Salim shared, before reciting his pantun:
“Tahu dilempar di Pantai Belawan,
Rame berterbangan burung merpati,
Jauh sudah kami berjalan
Namun hubungan yang indah tersebut tetap di hati kami.”
And he concluded with:
“Kalau tak ada kapal pinisi,
Manalah sanggup kita arungi dunia,
Kalau lah kami tidak berkoalisi,
Manalah sanggup majukan bangsa.”
Salim’s poetic words symbolized the enduring cooperation between PKS and Prabowo as they move forward toward building a stronger Indonesia. (RR)