Following his election victory, President-elect Prabowo Subianto is poised to adopt a more assertive foreign policy compared to his predecessor, Joko Widodo. Prabowo's approach, encapsulated in the motto 'bebas aktif' or 'free and independent', suggests a commitment to a balanced yet proactive stance in international relations [f0f15f24].
From April to September 2024, Prabowo engaged in a series of overseas visits, meeting with various heads of state, which contrasts sharply with Widodo's criticized absence at the ASEAN summit in October 2024 [f0f15f24]. This proactive engagement indicates Prabowo's intention to enhance Indonesia's diplomatic presence and influence on the global stage, especially as the country is ranked ninth in the Lowy Institute's Asia Power Index [f0f15f24].
In addition to his economic ambitions, Prabowo is expected to prioritize defense cooperation and may advocate for a stronger response to the ongoing crisis in Myanmar [f0f15f24]. The appointment of Sugiono as the front-runner for foreign minister is anticipated to further solidify this direction, as Prabowo seeks to build a robust foreign policy framework that aligns with Indonesia's strategic interests [f0f15f24].
As Prabowo implements his plans domestically, including a $28 billion nationwide free meal program and the ambitious capital relocation project to Nusantara, his foreign policy initiatives will also be closely watched. The combination of domestic reforms and a more assertive foreign stance could significantly reshape Indonesia's role in regional and global affairs [2b007787][6d846657].
However, the political climate remains charged, with ongoing protests regarding the election's legitimacy and concerns about human rights abuses linked to Prabowo's past. The opposition is determined to hold the new administration accountable, emphasizing the importance of transparency and democratic principles as Indonesia navigates this transitional phase [a99651d7].