Full Breakdown
President Prabowo Subianto Appoints New Advisory Council
By Drooid · · How we work
New Presidential Advisory Council Appointed
On October 2, 2026, President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated a refreshed Presidential Advisory Council (Wantimpres) at the State Palace in Jakarta. The council, originally created in 2006, had not received new members during the president’s first two years in office. The ceremony followed a series of cabinet reshuffles that introduced new finance and foreign ministers.
Composition and Notable Members
The council now includes a mix of business magnates, former ministers, religious leaders and public intellectuals. Among the business figures are billionaire Dato Sri Tahir, founder of the Mayapada Group, and Chairul Tanjung, founder of CT Corp, whose interests span finance, media, retail and hospitality. Former senior officials appointed include ex-Energy Minister Ignasius Jonan, ex-Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Budi Gunawan and former People’s Consultative Assembly speaker Bambang Soesatyo. Prominent Islamic leaders Said Aqil Siradj and Yahya Cholil Staquf were also named, as was political commentator Rocky Gerung, a former supporter who has recently criticized the administration. Pratikno, former Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, was designated chairman, with veteran politician Hatta Rajasa as vice-chairman and Muhammad Qodari as secretary.
Political Context and Objectives
Analysts note that the appointments come as Prabowo’s approval rating declines and investors express concern over policy direction. Arya Fernandes, an analyst at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, said the move is intended to shore up the president’s political power base amid a ratings slide.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Two sources differ on the council’s size: one reports 24 new members, while another lists a total of 26 members. Neither source provides a definitive roster, leaving the exact composition unclear. Additionally, details about the council’s decision-making procedures and the extent of its influence on presidential actions were not disclosed.
Outlook
The advisory council is tasked with offering recommendations to the president in carrying out his constitutional duties. Its effectiveness will likely be judged by how closely its advice translates into policy, especially as Prabowo navigates declining public support and recent ministerial changes. A future assessment may hinge on whether the council can bridge the gap between business interests, religious constituencies and the government’s strategic agenda.