President Prabowo’s official state visit to Saudi Arabia on July 1 was warmly received by Indonesian elementary school children in Jeddah. The children, waving Indonesian and Saudi Arabian flags, chanted “Welcome, Mr. President!” Their enthusiasm turned the formal occasion into a heartfelt gathering.
President Prabowo, delighted by the children’s excitement, greeted each child individually and posed for photographs. One student, Arsad Hanfana Al-Syarabi, proudly introduced himself as his parents work at the Indonesian Embassy. The President encouraged the children to study well, receiving a chorus of “Yes, Sir!” in response.
The interaction not only impacted the children but also the Indonesian community in attendance. Hanif Hasanuddin from Muhammadiyah’s Special Branch in Jeddah expressed gratitude and hope after shaking hands with President Prabowo. Senior Indonesian officials, ministers, and diplomats also attended, highlighting the visit’s importance beyond diplomatic ties.
President Prabowo’s visit fostered a genuine connection between a nation’s leader and its citizens abroad. For Indonesian children in the Holy Land, the encounter was inspiring and uplifting, strengthening the bond between Indonesia and its diaspora, and instilling hope and pride in all those present.
