Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X Admits Rarely Using Security Escort

KatadataOTO – A video showing the car of Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, the Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, waiting at a red light has gone viral on social media. The video even shows that his Lexus LM 350h was overtaken by another official's motorcade because it had a police escort.

The viral video prompted Sri Sultan to speak out. He admitted that he is not used to using an escort.

"Yes, I usually don't have an escort unless I'm attending an official event. Because I can also drive myself," said Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, as reported by Antara (14/10).

He also admitted that there is no special reason behind this habit.

Photo : Antara

"It's just not necessary (a police escort). Except when (attending) an official event," he said.

He also stated that using a private car for daily activities should not be an issue.

"Yes, I use AB 1 for official events, that's all. There's no need to make an issue of whether I use an escort or not," said Ngarsa Dalem

Asked Not to Use Sirens

It should be noted that Prasetyo Hadi, the Minister of State Secretary and Spokesperson for the President of the Republic of Indonesia, recently warned officials not to misuse siren facilities. He asked them to continue respecting other road users even when under escort.

The Ministry of State Secretariat has even issued a circular to all state officials to follow the laws and regulations regarding escort facilities and the use of sirens.

"State officials must pay attention to propriety, public order, and other road users. It does not mean that these facilities can be used arbitrarily," Prasetyo said some time ago.

He also mentioned that President Prabowo Subianto himself, on several occasions, does not use sirens and strobes while traveling.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Agus Suryonugroho, Head of the National Police Traffic Corps (Kakorlantas), revealed that the use of sirens and strobes can still be used for police duties. This is limited to patrol activities or the like.

Photo : Courtesy

This was conveyed by the Head of the Traffic Corps following a decision to temporarily suspend the use of sirens and strobes for certain vehicles during escort activities.

“Officers on duty, whether managing traffic or on routine patrol, can still use sirens and strobes. This is important, especially on toll roads, where signals like lights and the sound of sirens are crucial to anticipate accidents,” he said.