Executive Summary
President Prabowo Subianto on 17 September appointed retired General Djamari Chaniago as Indonesia’s new Minister for Political and Security Affairs.The move followed months of uncertainty after Budi Gunawan’s quiet exit from the post.
Chaniago’s appointment reflects Prabowo’s trust in loyal, senior military figures over civilians. At 76, he returns to government after two decades of military and business service. His selection signals stability and continuity rather than bold reform or institutional overhaul. In addition, Chaniago’s deep military ties may strengthen coordination across Indonesia’s security bureaucracy. His disciplined, measured style suits Prabowo’s preference for order and loyalty in leadership. However, his cautious approach could limit innovation on modern security and digital threats.
Profile
- Born 8 April 1949 in Padang, West Sumatra.
- Graduated from the Indonesian Military Academy (Akabri) in 1971, infantry branch.
- Early service in the elite Kostrad (Army Strategic Reserve Command) infantry unit.
- Participated in Operation Seroja 1975.
- Key military commands over his career:
- Commander of Military Region III / Siliwangi (1997-1998);
- Commander of Kostrad (1998-1999);
- Deputy Chief of Staff of the Army (1999-2000);
- Chief of General Staff of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (Kasum) (2000-2004).
- Served in the People’s Consultative Assembly (Majelis Permusyawaratan Rakyat, MPR) representing West Java during 1997-1998. Also at the Armed Forces (ABRI) faction in 1998-1999.
- After military retirement, has held business positions (e.g. President Commissioner of PT Semen Padang) and roles in honors/titles committees (Dewan Gelar, Tanda Jasa, dan Tanda Kehormatan for 2025-2030).
- Politically, associates with the Gerindra Party of President Prabowo Subianto.
- On September 17, 2025, sworn in as Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs (Menko Polkam) in President Prabowo’s Red and White Cabinet.
- He replaced Budi Gunawan in that role. The Minister of Defense (Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin) had been holding the position on an interim basis.
- Married with 3 children.