SINGAPORE – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto traveled to Singapore to mark a diplomatic milestone by attending the republic’s 60th National Day celebrations on August 9, 2025. His arrival at Singapore’s Paya Lebar Air Base was welcomed by Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, alongside Indonesian and Singaporean diplomatic officials.
During his visit, Prabowo was greeted by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at the National Gallery, and joined a ceremonial tea session featuring prominent figures, including Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi. He was later introduced on the main stage of the National Day Parade and offered a respectful greeting to Singapore’s former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, publicly addressing the audience as Indonesia’s eighth president since his inauguration the previous year.
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The parade, held at the historic Padang, featured 40 contingents from the armed forces, civil society, and youth groups. Highlights included a dynamic air display, a ceremonial feu-de-joie firing, and a joint “Mobile Column to the Heartlands” showcasing Singapore’s army, navy, and air force in coordinated operations. The event’s theme, “Majulah Singapura” (Onward Singapore), echoed the national anthem and symbolized a forward-looking spirit.
Prabowo’s presence underscored Indonesia’s respect and regional camaraderie, reinforcing the policy of “thousand friends, zero enemies” adopted by his administration. The ceremonial visit came just before Prabowo returned to Jakarta on August 9 evening, departing from the same air base with several Indonesian cabinet members and officials in attendance.
By joining the celebration, Prabowo reaffirmed bilateral goodwill and the shared historical and geographic bonds between Indonesia and Singapore. His visit was not only a gesture of diplomatic courtesy but also a reflection of Indonesia’s proactive regional engagement and partnership during a significant commemorative event in Singapore’s national history.
Source: ANTARANEWS
