The Gerakan Rakyat Indonesia Bersatu (GRIB) Jaya community organization is currently under scrutiny, especially in local areas where some people are starting to reject its presence. One such rejection is happening in Bali, where people argue that they already have the military, police, and traditional security forces (pecalang) to maintain peace and order. So, what exactly is GRIB Jaya?
GRIB Jaya was formed by Hercules Rozario Marshall, a former thug from Tanah Abang. Until now, Hercules still holds the position of Chairman of the Central Leadership Council (DPP) of GRIB Jaya. Hercules once received the Setya Lencana Seroja award for his perceived pro-NKRI contributions during the conflict in East Timor. He helped Kopassus as a logistics transport worker during Operation Seroja in East Timor. The man from East Timor founded GRIB Jaya in 2012. Formerly, Prabowo Subianto, who is now the president, participated in the inauguration of the GRIB DPP office in Kemanggisan, Palmerah, West Jakarta in May 2012. In his social media post at that time, Prabowo believed that GRIB could consistently defend the oppressed and empower them. “Serving the nation and the state knows no time and place. Creating change by improving services and comfort, not like some organizations that spread threats and fear,” wrote Prabowo as quoted by Tribunnews.com on Monday (5/12/2025).
Despite being present at the inauguration, Prabowo did not join the management of GRIB Jaya. His position was that of Chairman of the Advisory Board. The Secretary-General of GRIB Jaya, Zulfikar, stated in a video posted on Instagram that Prabowo is the father of the GRIB Jaya organization. “Mr. Prabowo’s position in GRIB Jaya organization is the highest for us, the father of our organization, implicitly. Explicitly, there is none.”
In conclusion, GRIB Jaya’s presence has sparked controversy in various regions, including Bali, where some residents are skeptical of the organization’s necessity. The founder, Hercules Rozario Marshall, has a controversial background as a former thug, but has been recognized for his contributions to the nation. Prabowo Subianto, although not actively involved in GRIB Jaya’s management, has shown support for the organization’s mission. The future of GRIB Jaya remains uncertain, as public perception and acceptance continue to be a topic of discussion in various communities.
