“Tudangeng Mallajang”: A Symbol of Transcendence at Gerindra’s National Gathering

BOGOR, RAKYAT NEWS – The 17th anniversary celebration of current ruling the Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra) at the Sentul International Convention Center (SICC) in Bogor, West Java, on Saturday, was marked by a poignant moment: five empty chairs placed prominently at the front row of the event.

Gerindra’s Chairman and Indonesia’s current President, Prabowo “Makkasiwiang” Subianto, explained the significance of the empty chairs during his speech.

He stated that the tradition symbolizes respect for Gerindra cadres and fighters who have passed away.

“My dear friends, you may notice several empty chairs in the front row. This is our tradition. At every event, we reserve empty chairs to honor our comrades who are no longer with us. Their spirit, however, remains with us,” Prabowo said.

According to Gerindra’s official website, this tradition is a tribute to the party’s fallen heroes.

The empty chairs represent the enduring spirit of Gerindra’s founders and fighters, whose legacy continues to inspire the party’s ongoing struggle.

This is not the first time Gerindra has observed this tradition. During the party’s 16th anniversary celebration the previous year, Prabowo emphasized that the founders had fought selflessly from the very beginning.

He specifically paid tribute to Suhardi, Gerindra’s first Chairman, and Rachmawati Soekarnoputri, former Deputy Chair of the Advisory Council, both of whom dedicated their lives to the party and the nation.

“Their loyalty, idealism, and love for the homeland remind us to honor their memory, draw strength from their spirit, and never cease our struggle,” Prabowo remarked at the time.