September 19, 2026 | 07:36 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto stressed that Indonesia must become a strong nation in order to help oppressed people, including those in Palestine.
"If we are strong, we can help our brothers and sisters who are oppressed by another regime," Prabowo said in his remarks at the reception marking the 100th anniversary of Darussalam Gontor Islamic Boarding School on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Prabowo said the ongoing attacks faced by the Palestinian people should encourage Indonesia to build its national strength.
Prabowo said he was reminded of the Palestinian people while delivering remarks at the event.
Prabowo was presented with a keffiyeh by Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia Abdulfattah A.K. Al-Sattari during his speech.
After returning to the podium, Prabowo was seen wiping his eyes with the traditional Palestinian scarf.
President Prabowo also shouted "Free Palestine" several times during his speech.
"I apologize. I was reminded of our brothers and sisters in Palestine," he said.
Prabowo said Indonesia needed to study diligently and build a strong nation so that it would have the capacity to face various challenges.
Prabowo stated that a nation's strength is also linked to the ability to be self-reliant and not depend on other nations.
The president added that Indonesia must be able to manage, protect, and strengthen itself by managing the wealth it possesses.
Prabowo also stressed the importance of learning from history to ensure that Indonesia would not experience colonization again.
"And we must be determined never to be colonized again by anyone. We must be strong," the President said.
Read: Prabowo: Major Economic Powers Aim to HIjack Democracy
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