Jakarta — President-elect of Indonesia for the term 2024-2029, Prabowo Subianto, has been recognized as one of the top 50 in The Muslim 500: The World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims 2025, securing the 18th position. He is listed among influential Muslim leaders like Jordan’s King Abdullah II, UAE 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 King Abdullah II, MBZ, MBS, and Erdoğan promptly congratulated him on his victory in the 2024 Indonesian presidential election.
“Throughout his political career, Prabowo has established himself as a nationalist leader, focusing on economic development, food security, and a more assertive foreign policy,” as mentioned by The Muslim 500.
As Indonesia’s Defense Minister, Prabowo has played a significant role in the nation, including his support for fellow Muslim countries, especially Palestine. In January 2024, Prabowo dispatched the Indonesian Navy’s hospital ship, KRI dr. Radjiman Wedyodiningrat-992, with 240 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza. He also personally donated Rp 5 billion to Palestine and offered 22 scholarships to Palestinian students to study at Indonesia’s Defense University.
At the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore from May 31 to June 2, 2024, Prabowo reiterated Indonesia’s willingness to send peacekeeping troops to the Gaza conflict zone.
“If the UN deems it necessary and requests our assistance, we are prepared to deploy a substantial peacekeeping contingent to oversee a ceasefire and ensure protection and security for all parties,” Prabowo stated during the event.
As Indonesia’s incoming 8th President, Prabowo is anticipated to encounter notable challenges, particularly in unifying the diverse nation while emphasizing on economic development and social welfare.
“His presidency is likely to bring about a shift in Indonesia’s domestic and foreign policies, potentially reflecting the country’s role in Southeast Asia and on the global platform,” concluded The Muslim 500. (RR)
