This study investigates whether the eight ancient principles of Javanese statesmanship (Asta Brata), can be employed as the basis for analysing managerial leadership excellence in Javanese organizations. Factor analysis, regression modelling and structural modelling are used to explain what constitutes leadership excellence in Javanese organizations. These findings based on the perceptions of 312 Javanese managers suggest they favour a paternalistic leadership style that is nurturing but not authoritative. This study highlights the importance of understanding Indonesia's bapak-ism, or reverence for the leader as a father figure, and its familial orientation of interdependency between management and employees.