Prabowo Subianto was inaugurated on Sunday as the eighth president of Indonesia, marking a significant moment not only for him personally but also for the nation itself. Known as the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, Indonesia's shift to leadership under Subianto brings with it uncertainty and promise, as the former general steps away from the tumultuous past of military dictatorship and toward the challenges of modern governance.
The inauguration took place against the vibrant backdrop of Jakarta, where thousands of jubilant supporters adorned the streets with banners and flags, celebrating their new leader. Dressed in blue Betawi traditional cloth and wearing a dark baseball cap, Subianto was greeted with cheers and applause as he made his way through the capital. His motorcade struggled to navigate the crowds, with supporters wildly chanting their well-wishes, “Good luck Prabowo-Gibran,” the latter referring to his newly appointed vice president, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, son of outgoing President Joko Widodo.
Subianto, at 73 years old, completed his oath on the Quran, witnessed by lawmakers and foreign dignitaries. His arrival marks not only his ascent to the presidency but also symbolizes continuity, as he plans to build upon the policies established during Widodo's administration—an approach he championed vigorously during his campaign.
“I see a firm and patriotic figure in him,” said Atalaric Eka Prayoga, highlighting the hope and expectation many Indonesians harbor for their new leader. Meanwhile, another supporter, Silky Putri, expressed desires for Subianto “to build Indonesia to be more advanced and improve the current gloomy economic situation.”
Piloting his way through the massive crowd, Subianto seemed to embody the spirit of renewal, even after years of political rivalry with Widodo. The two had faced off twice before—first in the 2014 election and again in 2019—and Subianto was known for not graciously accepting his defeat. Nonetheless, the relationship transformed when Widodo appointed him as defense minister following his reelection, establishing what many viewed as a pragmatic alliance. This transition played a significant role in Subianto's eventual rise to the presidency and reflects the shifting dynamics of Indonesian politics.
Subianto’s platform is largely centered on policy continuity, following the effervescent footsteps of Widodo. His proposed initiatives include completing the controversial construction of a new capital city, currently underway on Borneo, and enforcing new restrictions on exporting raw materials aimed at fostering domestic industries. His approach signifies not only political strategy but also economic ambition—aligning with sentiments of many global leaders present during the inauguration.
With the successful election behind him, Subianto now faces the monumental task of governing Indonesia, which boasts the largest economy in Southeast Asia. Yet the path forward is clouded by uncertainties, particularly as he navigates through the rivalries of global politics, especially within the realms of U.S.-China relations.
His history as a military leader carries its own weight, especially considering accusations of human rights abuses following his tenure as special forces commander. Despite these dark chapters from the past—including his expulsion from the army and subsequent self-imposed exile—Subianto managed to project strength and resilience, both of which served him well politically. During the inauguration, he railed against corruption, vowing to tackle issues of poverty and malnourishment which plague many Indonesians.
“Too many of our brothers and sisters are below the poverty line, too many of our children go to school without breakfast and do not have clothes for school,” he affirmed during his inaugural speech. This commitment to fight against poverty entails promising free school lunches for 83 million schoolchildren, aiming to address the nutritional failures faced by many students and even projecting hope for future generations.
On the international stage, Subianto has already demonstrated ambition through his extensive pre-election diplomacy, engaging with leaders from China, Japan, and Russia among others. His administration's foreign policy will embrace non-alignment, avoiding military alliances, and carving out friendships with multiple nations—notable amid increasing regional tensions and economic distress.
On the eve of his inauguration, it was reported the Jordanian King Abdullah II had planned to attend but instead sent his foreign affairs minister due to escalated tensions in the Middle East. Nonetheless, leaders from over 30 countries attended the ceremony, signifying global recognition as Indonesia steps onto the world stage under new leadership.
The next steps for Subianto’s administration will involve appointing ministers, many of whom are expected to be reappointed from the previous government, ensuring continuity amid his significant reforms. How effectively he tackles the pressing issue of economic reform remains to be seen. Yet, with the political backdrop of Indonesia transforming, Prabowo Subianto’s presidency promises to be one of both continuity and change as he embarks on this complex course of leadership.
