President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, participated in the Singapore National Day Parade on August 9, coinciding with the city-state’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. National Day in Singapore is observed annually on August 9 to commemorate the country’s independence in 1965.
The Indonesian Presidential Aircraft carrying President Prabowo landed at Paya Lebar Airbase at 3:40 p.m. local time, accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya. Following the official airport welcome, the President’s entourage proceeded to the hotel where he would be staying. The hotel lobby had been bustling with Indonesian citizens, members of the diaspora, students, and officials from the Indonesian Embassy in Singapore, all eager to greet their Head of State since midday.
President Prabowo took the time to personally greet each Indonesian and member of the diaspora present, creating a warm and familial atmosphere. His presence was met with cheers, joyful applause, and a surge of patriotic spirit from the expatriate community, including university students studying in Singapore.
The visit not only highlighted the close ties between Indonesia and Singapore but also emphasized the personal connection and approachability of a head of state towards his citizens abroad.
