President Prabowo visited Saudi Arabia on July 1, where he received a warm welcome from Indonesian elementary school children in Jeddah. The children, waving flags of Indonesia and Saudi Arabia, cheered and chanted “Welcome, Mr. President!” as they lined up in the hotel lobby. President Prabowo, delighted by their enthusiasm, took the time to greet each child individually and took photos with them. One student, Arsad Hanfana Al-Syarabi, proudly introduced himself as his parents worked at the Indonesian Embassy. The President encouraged the children to study well, receiving a resounding “Yes, Sir!” in response.
The interaction between President Prabowo and the children left a deep impression not only on them but also on the Indonesian community in attendance. Hanif Hasanuddin, a representative of Muhammadiyah’s Special Branch in Jeddah, expressed his gratitude and hopes after meeting with the President. Senior Indonesian officials, ministers, and diplomats also joined the event, highlighting the importance of the President’s visit.
President Prabowo’s visit to Saudi Arabia symbolized a genuine connection between Indonesia’s leader and its citizens living abroad. For the Indonesian children in Saudi Arabia, the experience was inspiring and uplifting, strengthening the bond between Indonesia and its diaspora. It was a moment filled with hope and pride for all those present.
