Salim Segaf Aljufri, Chairman of the Majelis Syuro of the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), expressed his confidence in President-elect Prabowo Subianto’s ability to lead Indonesia to become a regional leader in ASEAN. Salim shared this perspective during a visit to Prabowo’s residence at Jalan Kertanegara No. 4, South Jakarta, on Friday afternoon (October 11).
Salim stressed the significance of unity among all national components, especially in dealing with global conflicts that could have an impact on Indonesia.
“Given the current global situation of uncertainty and conflicts like those in Russia and Ukraine, as well as the Zionist aggression against the Palestinian people, we need to come together and devise a comprehensive strategy for facing these challenges, as their repercussions will be felt here,” Salim declared.
He highlighted Indonesia’s potential as a major nation with abundant natural resources and a sizable population, asserting that Indonesia should aspire to lead the ASEAN region.
“As a large nation in terms of both 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 assuming that leadership role,” Salim added.
Salim also emphasized the connection between Indonesia’s leadership role and the importance of supporting Palestine’s right to independence, harkening back to the strong historical bond between the two nations.
“If this leadership is realized, I am confident that our beloved nation will not forget about Palestine. They deserve the right to attain their independence, just as they were the first to recognize and support Indonesian independence when we gained ours,” Salim remarked.
In a demonstration of the enduring relationship between Prabowo and PKS, Salim recited a special pantun (a traditional Indonesian poem) capturing the deep connection between Prabowo and the party.
“The relationship between PKS and Mr. Prabowo Subianto is longstanding 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.”
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 verses symbolized the enduring collaboration between PKS and Prabowo as they work together to build a stronger Indonesia. (RR)
