President Prabowo’s official state visit to Saudi Arabia on July 1 was filled with heartwarming moments, especially when he was greeted by Indonesian elementary school children in Jeddah. The children, holding Indonesian and Saudi Arabian flags, welcomed the President with cheers and chants of “Welcome, Mr. President!” The atmosphere quickly turned into a joyful gathering as Prabowo interacted with each child, urging them to study well. One student, Arsad Hanfana Al-Syarabi, proudly shared that his parents work at the Indonesian Embassy, further strengthening the connection between the President and the Indonesian community in Jeddah.
The reception extended beyond just the children, as representatives from organizations like Muhammadiyah’s Special Branch in Jeddah and senior Indonesian officials also expressed gratitude and hope after meeting President Prabowo. The visit highlighted the close bond between Indonesia and its diaspora, leaving a positive impact on all attendees. For the Indonesian children in Saudi Arabia, the encounter with their nation’s leader was not only inspiring but also a source of pride, fostering a sense of hope and unity among the community.
President Prabowo’s visit to Saudi Arabia underscored the importance of connecting with Indonesian citizens abroad and nurturing a strong relationship between the country and its diaspora. The interaction between the President and the children symbolized a genuine moment of unity and camaraderie, emphasizing the significance of fostering a sense of belonging among overseas Indonesians.
