President Prabowo’s official state visit to Saudi Arabia on July 1 was greeted with cheers and excitement from Indonesian elementary school children in Jeddah. The children, waving Indonesian and Saudi Arabian flags, welcomed the President with chants of “Welcome, Mr. President!” The formal occasion quickly turned into a heartfelt gathering as President Prabowo greeted each child individually, posed for photographs, and offered a message to study well. One student, Arsad Hanfana Al-Syarabi, introduced himself confidently as his parents work at the Indonesian Embassy, leaving a lasting impression on both the children and the Indonesian community present at the event.
The interaction at the reception emphasized the significance of the President’s visit beyond diplomatic engagements, with representatives from Muhammadiyah’s Special Branch in Jeddah expressing gratitude and hopes after shaking hands with President Prabowo. Senior Indonesian officials, ministers, and diplomats also attended, highlighting the strong bond between Indonesia and its diaspora. The visit created a genuine connection between the nation’s leader and its citizens abroad, inspiring and uplifting Indonesian children in the Holy Land and instilling hope and pride among all those present.
Overall, President Prabowo’s visit to Saudi Arabia was a moment of unity and encouragement, showcasing the strong ties between Indonesia and its diaspora. The occasion was a testament to the country’s commitment to fostering relationships with its citizens around the world.