JAKARTA — Prabowo Subianto was inaugurated as Indonesia’s eighth President today, marking the beginning of a new political chapter for Southeast Asia’s largest economy. The ceremony, held at the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) in Jakarta, was attended by foreign dignitaries and watched live by millions across the country.
The 73-year-old former defense minister took his oath of office dressed in a traditional blue Javanese outfit, with a Quran held above his head. His inauguration follows a successful election campaign that secured him over 58% of the vote in the February 14 elections. This marks his third bid for the presidency, after previous attempts in 2014 and 2019.
In his oath, President Prabowo swore to uphold Indonesia’s Constitution and laws, pledging to carry out his duties to the best of his abilities. After the oath, he warmly embraced outgoing President Joko Widodo, known as Jokowi, symbolizing a peaceful transfer of power. Posters around Jakarta expressed appreciation for Jokowi’s tenure and well-wishes for Prabowo and his running mate, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who was sworn in as Vice-President. Gibran, 37, is the son of Jokowi and the former mayor of Solo.
The ceremony was attended by key international figures, including Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, and representatives from South Korea, China, and the United States. Former Indonesian presidents Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Megawati Soekarnoputri also had representatives at the event.
President Prabowo’s victory followed a heated race against former Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo and former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan, both of whom were present at the inauguration. Hopes are high that Prabowo’s administration will maintain political stability and continue to elevate Indonesia’s role on the global stage. His leadership will be closely watched as he navigates the challenges of steering the nation toward economic growth and development while upholding Indonesia’s democratic values.