President Prabowo recently embarked on an official state visit to Saudi Arabia on July 1st, receiving an enthusiastic welcome from Indonesian elementary school children in Jeddah. The children, waving Indonesian and Saudi Arabian flags, greeted the President with chants of “Welcome, Mr. President!” The event, initially formal, quickly turned into a warm and lively gathering.
President Prabowo, visibly pleased by the children’s excitement, took the time to personally greet and take photos with each child. 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 an enthusiastic response of “Yes, Sir!” from the young audience.
The interaction not only left an impression on the children but also touched the hearts of the Indonesian community present. Hanif Hasanuddin, a representative of Muhammadiyah’s Special Branch in Jeddah, expressed gratitude and optimism after meeting President Prabowo. Several senior Indonesian officials, including ministers and diplomats, also attended the event, highlighting the significance of the President’s visit.
President Prabowo’s visit to Saudi Arabia symbolized a genuine connection between a nation’s leader and its citizens living abroad. For the Indonesian children in the Holy Land, the encounter was both inspiring and uplifting. The event showcased the strong bond between Indonesia and its expatriate community, instilling a sense of hope and pride among everyone in attendance.
