Jakarta – In the historic inauguration of Indonesia’s newly elected President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka for the 2024–2029 term, a notable number of VVIPs, including heads of state, prime ministers, and vice presidents, arrived to witness the occasion. The event welcomed 19 world leaders and 15 special envoys, including Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng.
Khairul Fahmi, an analyst from the Institute for Security and Strategic Studies (ISSES), remarked that Prabowo’s inauguration as Indonesia’s 8th president symbolizes a new chapter in Indonesia’s global diplomacy.
“The presence of regional and global leaders in Jakarta for this inauguration reflects a significant recognition of, and high hopes for, Prabowo’s leadership,” said Fahmi during an interview in Jakarta.
He explained that the arrival of delegations from major countries like China and the United States is not merely a formal acknowledgment of Prabowo’s electoral victory but also an indication of Indonesia’s potential as a strategic partner in addressing global challenges.
“This event is a manifestation of the diplomacy Prabowo has cultivated over the years, which has fostered strong relationships with leaders from many nations,” Fahmi added.
He further noted that the attendance of these global leaders is symbolic of hopes for deeper cooperation in politics, economics, and security under Prabowo’s leadership.
“I believe this reflects their trust that under Prabowo’s leadership, Indonesia will play a more active role in shaping regional and global security architecture,” Fahmi continued.
Fahmi highlighted Prabowo’s “personal” approach to diplomacy with key world leaders, citing his trips to China, Japan, and Turkey as examples of his commitment to maintaining close international ties.
“The presence of these world leaders in Jakarta is an acknowledgment that under Prabowo, Indonesia is not a minor player but a force to be reckoned with,” Fahmi stated.
He further emphasized that the leaders’ attendance also signifies confidence in Indonesia’s potential to lead the region, especially in addressing key strategic issues such as maritime security, climate change, and strengthening ASEAN cooperation.
“This inauguration marks a significant starting point for building international support and cooperation,” he noted.
Fahmi concluded by expressing optimism about Indonesia’s future on the world stage under Prabowo’s leadership, believing that this is just the beginning of a journey where Indonesia will solidify its role as a strategic global partner.
“The next five years will see Prabowo strengthening Indonesia’s diplomacy, positioning the country as a strategic partner. This inauguration is the start of a long journey, and the world is ready to witness how Indonesia under Prabowo’s leadership will make its mark on the international stage,” Fahmi concluded. (RR)