The House of Representatives (DPR) has received namesof government's nominees for ambassadorial posts, in particular the United States, a position that has remained vacant amid mounting geopolitical pressures. 

TB Hasanuddin, a member of the House’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Commission I, said the nominee was submitted to the House leadership and will soon be forwarded to the relevant commission for review.

Hasanuddin confirmed that the Commission is preparing to carry out a fit-and-proper test, although he emphasized that the assessment will be conducted in the form of a hearing (RDP), focusing on the nominee’s understanding of diplomatic duties rather than being a formal pass-or-fail exam.

“We will evaluate their grasp of the role, and if we find a nominee unsuitable for the U.S., we may suggest reassignment to another post,” Hasanuddin said at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

“We do not declare whether someone passes or fails. It’s not that kind of test,” he added.

While the schedule for the hearing has not been finalized, Hasanuddin noted that it will be held "soon" given the strategic importance of the post and the urgency of global developments. The U.S. ambassadorial seat has been vacant since the departure of the previous envoy, Rosan P. Roeslani, in July 2023.

“Given the global economic situation and ongoing conflicts, we will prioritize and expedite this process,” he added.

In addition to the U.S. nomination, House leadership has reportedly received names for other strategic postings, including North Korea and Japan, though specific details remain undisclosed.

Speculations

Separately, House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad addressed widespread speculation over possible nominees. He dismissed rumors that former Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi, as well as former Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa and former World Bank Managing Director Mari Elka Pangestu, were being considered for the role.

“Those names are not on the list,” Dasco stated firmly, adding that Commission I will soon provide clarification to the public once formal processes are underway.

Dasco reaffirmed that the House will act swiftly in reviewing all ambassadorial nominations, including for the U.S., in line with legislative procedures.

“Now that we’ve resumed session, we will process the government’s proposals without delay,” he said.

Dino Patti Djalal

Former Indonesian Ambassador to the U.S., Dino Patti Djalal, expressed his approval of the move, highlighting the strategic significance of the Washington DC post.

“That’s a very strategic position, especially now. We need someone present on the ground,” Dino spoke to reporters on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

Dino, who was once floated as a leading candidate to return to the role, denied having been approached by the government, but was heartened that this public calls to fill the vacant post may have had an impact.

“There’s global geopolitical upheaval right now. We hope that whoever is appointed can manage our relationship with the U.S. effectively and contribute to regional stability,” Dino, who also served as Deputy Foreign Minister in 2014, said.