Indonesia’s Strength Lies in Unity, Independent-and-Active Foreign Policy: President Prabowo Subianto

President Prabowo Subianto delivers his remarks at the inauguration ceremony of the Marsinah Museum and Resting House in Nglundo village, Sukomoro district, Nganjuk regency, East Java province, on Saturday (05/16). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

President Prabowo affirmed that Indonesia’s strength lies in national unity, collective respects for the values upheld by the nation’s founding figures, and a firm commitment to an independent and active foreign policy that promotes friendship with all countries. The statement was conveyed during his remarks at the inauguration ceremony of the Marsinah Museum and Resting House in Nglundo village, Sukomoro district, Nganjuk regency, East Java province, on Saturday (05/16).

“In fact, I have learned a lot from the virtues of Bung Karno. Therefore, with all due respect, Bung Karno does not belong to just one political party. Bung Karno belongs to the entire Indonesian nation. Bung Karno, Bung Hatta, and Syahrir belong to all of us. That is where our greatness lies. If we aspire to become a strong and advanced nation, we must draw strength from all sides. [That is what makes] Indonesia extraordinary. That is why, ladies and gentlemen, while many regions in the world are currently facing conflict, Indonesia remains independent and active. A thousand friends are too few, one enemy is too many. We respect everyone,” The President stated.

The President also emphasized that Indonesia continues to firmly uphold its independent and active foreign policy, choosing to be a good partner to all countries. According to the Head of State, the principle is an integral part of the Indonesian national culture, which highly values mutual respect.

“We respect others and we do not seek enemies. Therefore, upon assuming the presidency, I declared that Indonesia’s foreign policy would remain independent and active, as well as non-aligned. We want to be the good neighbor, our policy is the good neighbor policy,” he added.

On the occasion, the President also highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen good relations with friendly countries and neighboring states, including the resolution of several long-standing bilateral issues.

“I have worked to improve relations with Singapore. Agreements that remained unsolved for over a decade have now been settled. The same applies to Vietnam. [Issues that occurred during the administration of previous President] Mr. Jokowi, we resolved them all. We have also improved [relations] with China. Alhamdulillah, tensions in the Natuna area have become less frequent now. With Malaysia, I continue to pursue [constructive solutions]. Insya Allah, we will resolve [matters] amicably. We maintain good relations with Papua New Guinea as well. With Australia, Thailand, and all neighboring countries, we are on good terms,” The President remarked.

In addition, the Head of State expressed optimism regarding Indonesia’s condition amidst global uncertainty. The President noted that Indonesia possesses strong resilience supported by food and energy security, as well as the nation’s abundant natural resources.

“Our food supply is secure; our energy supply is secure. While many countries are facing difficulties, Indonesia remains in a stable condition. We have been blessed abundantly by the Almighty,” the President stated. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (YA/AW)