Prabowo Subianto was inaugurated as Indonesia’s eighth president on Sunday, marking the culmination of a controversial political journey from ex-general accused of human rights abuses to leader of the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation.
Subianto, who turned 73 last week, was welcomed by thousands of cheering supporters in Jakarta as he took his oath on the Quran in front of lawmakers and foreign dignitaries. Wearing traditional Betawi attire, he greeted supporters from a motorcade, surrounded by banners and billboards celebrating his victory.
“I see a firm and patriotic figure in him,” said one supporter, Atalaric Eka Prayoga, while another hoped Subianto would address Indonesia’s economic challenges.
Once a rival of former President Joko Widodo, Subianto had twice run unsuccessfully for the presidency before forming an alliance with Widodo, who appointed him as defense minister. In the 2024 election, Subianto ran as Widodo’s heir, promising to continue his policies, including the construction of a new capital city and boosting domestic industries. Subianto’s vice president, 37-year-old Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is Widodo’s son.
While Subianto campaigned on continuity, he made few specific promises besides continuing Widodo’s modernization efforts. He inherits leadership of Southeast Asia’s largest economy, where nearly 90% of the population is Muslim. However, challenges loom, including regional tensions and global economic uncertainties.
In his inauguration speech, Subianto railed against corruption and pledged to tackle poverty, malnutrition, and economic inequality. He also reiterated his commitment to food and energy self-sufficiency while promising to provide free school lunches and tackle child malnutrition.
On the international stage, Subianto has engaged extensively with U.S. and Chinese officials, signaling his intention to maintain a balanced foreign policy. He emphasized Indonesia’s commitment to non-alignment and global justice, stating, “We will stand against all colonialism and defend the interests of oppressed people worldwide.”
