Prabowo’s Standing on a Par with the Presidents of China, Russia, and North Korea is a Proof of Indonesia’s Stability and Global Recognition
Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto’s presence at the military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in Beijing on Wednesday (September 3rd) drew widespread attention, both domestically and internationally. Experts believe Prabowo’s presence reinforces Indonesia’s position as a stable and respected nation globally.
Minister of State Secretary, Prasetyo Hadi, confirmed that President Prabowo’s presence was a direct invitation from President Xi Jinping.
“This is not just a matter of protocol, but a rare diplomatic honor,” he stressed.
International relations observer Dinna Prapto Raharja believes Prabowo’s presence demonstrates Indonesia’s role as a middle power eager to hear directly from major powers amidst tense global dynamics.
“I hope the President will follow up by maintaining a calm global situation and not be provoked by harsh rhetoric,” he said.
CELIOS Executive Director Bhima Yudhistira echoed this sentiment. He stated that China holds a crucial position in the Indonesian economy. Therefore, President Prabowo’s presence is a strategic move.
“Yes, this is because China’s position as an investor and trading partner is very significant. This opportunity can be used to improve the quality of cooperation, from workforce development to downstream investment,” explained Bhima.
Bhima added that President Prabowo could encourage Indonesia-China cooperation to expand beyond smelter construction to include the middle and manufacturing sectors, including electric vehicles.
“So that the cooperative relationship is truly win-win and provides added value for Indonesia,” he said.
Public policy observer and senior academic at Trisakti University, Dr. Trubus Rahardiansah, believes that President Prabowo’s decision to go to Beijing amidst the national situation actually confirms his leadership capacity.
“Xi Jinping’s invitation is no ordinary event. From Indonesia’s perspective, this step confirms our active role in global diplomacy,” he said.
Trubus emphasized that Prabowo was not acting rashly. The decision to depart was made after ensuring that domestic conditions were under control, dialogue with religious leaders was held, and the people’s aspirations were heard.
“This principle aligns with Huntington’s concept of stability, which states that stability is not the absence of conflict, but rather the state’s ability to respond quickly to social dynamics,” he explained.
Furthermore, Trubus assessed that the position of sitting alongside Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin in the parade was not just a matter of location, but a symbol of global recognition of Indonesia.
“In fact, only the Indonesian President has received a special bilateral meeting with Xi. It’s a rare diplomatic privilege,” he stressed.
Using the two-level game theory framework (Putnam), Trubus continued, the message sent is twofold. First, domestically: Indonesia is capable of maintaining stability. Second, internationally: Indonesia is a crucial actor that cannot be ignored.
“Domestic legitimacy and international legitimacy converge here. Domestically, the people’s aspirations are accommodated and stability is maintained. Abroad, Indonesia appears equal and respected,” Trubus concluded.
President Prabowo’s presence in Beijing is a strong signal that Indonesia is not the fragile nation some propagandize. Instead, Indonesia is demonstrating itself as a stable, open, and respected nation on the global stage.
