Prabowo Subianto, President-elect of Indonesia for the 2024-2029 term, has been recognized in The Muslim 500: The World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims 2025, securing the 18th position. He is listed among prominent Muslim leaders such as Jordan’s King Abdullah II, United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ), Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), and Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Prabowo’s strong diplomatic ties with these influential leaders were evident as they promptly congratulated him after his victory in the 2024 Indonesian presidential election.
Throughout his political career, Prabowo has portrayed himself as a strong nationalist leader, focusing on economic development, food security, and a more assertive foreign policy. As Indonesia’s Defense Minister, he has played a significant role in aiding fellow Muslim countries, particularly Palestine. He sent humanitarian aid to Gaza, personally donated to Palestine, and offered scholarships to Palestinian students.
At the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Prabowo expressed Indonesia’s readiness to send peacekeeping forces to the Gaza conflict zone if requested by the UN.
As Indonesia’s 8th President, Prabowo is expected to encounter challenges in uniting the diverse nation, focusing on economic growth, and social welfare. His presidency may bring about changes in Indonesia’s domestic and foreign policies, potentially shaping the country’s role in Southeast Asia and globally.
