President recalls Palestine during Gontor centennial celebration

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the need for Indonesia to grow stronger in order to assist oppressed peoples, particularly those in Palestine, during a speech at the 100th-anniversary celebration of the Darussalam Gontor Islamic Boarding School on Saturday, September 19, 2026. Speaking at the event in Ponorogo, Prabowo acknowledged the suffering of the Palestinian people and expressed a desire to support them more effectively. During his address, Prabowo was given a keffiyeh, a traditional Palestinian headscarf, by Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia Abdulfattah A.K. Al-Sattari. After accepting the gift, Prabowo wiped his eyes with the scarf and later shouted "Free Palestine" multiple times during his speech. He apologized for being reminded of the plight of Palestinians and stated that their continued attacks and distressing conditions had prompted reflection on Indonesia’s limitations in offering aid. Prabowo highlighted the importance of building a strong and self-reliant nation capable of protecting itself and supporting others. He noted that Indonesia must learn from history to avoid future colonization and stressed the necessity of managing its resources effectively. His comments were aimed at encouraging Islamic scholars, religious leaders, educators, and the youth to work towards strengthening the country. The event took place amid broader discussions about Indonesia’s role in international affairs, including its stance on issues affecting the Middle East. Prabowo’s remarks underscored the connection between national strength and the ability to provide meaningful support to oppressed communities around the world. The ceremony marked the centenary of the Darussalam Gontor Islamic Boarding School, a prominent institution known for its contributions to Islamic education in Indonesia. Prabowo’s presence at the event signified the government’s recognition of the school’s historical and cultural significance. In addition to his focus on national strength and international solidarity, Prabowo reiterated Indonesia’s determination to remain independent and free from external influence. He called for vigilance against forces seeking to undermine democratic processes through financial manipulation, referencing previous statements about economic powers attempting to interfere in domestic governance. His speech reflected a broader narrative of national resilience and self-sufficiency, aligning with recent policy initiatives aimed at enhancing Indonesia’s energy independence and improving regional cooperation. These efforts are part of a larger strategy to ensure that Indonesia can meet both internal and external challenges with confidence and capability. As the leader of one of Southeast Asia’s largest economies, Prabowo’s emphasis on national strength resonates within a region that often faces complex geopolitical dynamics. His call for unity among Islamic scholars and educators underscores the belief that collective effort and dedication can lead to a more robust and capable nation. The event drew attention from various stakeholders, including foreign diplomats and local community members, highlighting the significance of the occasion and the messages conveyed by the president. The presentation of the keffiyeh symbolized not only a gesture of solidarity with Palestine but also a reaffirmation of Indonesia’s commitment to standing with oppressed peoples globally. Prabowo’s remarks will likely be followed by further actions or policies aimed at reinforcing Indonesia’s national capabilities and international engagement. As the country continues to navigate its role in global affairs, the emphasis on strength and self-reliance remains central to its leadership’s vision.