Indonesia’s new elected President, Prabowo Subianto has taken a bold move in shaping Indonesia’s foreign policy by appointing Sugiono as the new Foreign Minister, a decision that comes with significant changes. For the first time in Indonesia’s history, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will have not one, but three deputy ministers, namely Gelora Party Chairman Anis Matta, Indonesia’s Ambassador to the UN Arrmanatha Nasir, and Indonesia’s Ambassador to Germany Arif Havas Oegroseno. This unique leadership structure signals Prabowo’s intent to keep a close eye on Indonesia’s global standing and diplomatic affairs.
The Fantastic Four
Sugiono, a close confidant of Prabowo, hails from Takengon, Aceh, and brings with him an international academic background. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Norwich University in Vermont, U.S. and went on to obtain a master’s degree in Management and Business from the University of Konstanz, Germany. His appointment marks a departure from the norm, as he becomes the first non-career diplomat to serve as Foreign Minister since 2001. Sugiono’s reputation within the Gerindra party is well-established − he is often seen as Prabowo’s ideological protégé, respected for his sharp intellect, strategic thinking, and decisive nature.
Arrmanatha Nasir, affectionately known as Tata, is no stranger to diplomacy. Currently Indonesia’s Ambassador to the UN, Nasir has previously represented the country in France, Andorra, Monaco, and the UNESCO from 2019 to 2021. With his experience on the global stage, Tata brings a wealth of knowledge that will be instrumental in navigating complex international dynamics.
Meanwhile, Anis Matta, Gelora Party Chairman, will also play a key role as Deputy Foreign Minister. Known for his deep understanding of the Islamic world, Anis hinted that his focus would likely center on global Islamic issues. “I have been entrusted by pak Prabowo to serve as Deputy Foreign Minister, with a probable focus on the Islamic world,” he said, underscoring Prabowo’s emphasis on this important geopolitical arena.
Rounding out the team is Arif Havas Oegroseno, a seasoned diplomat with years of experience. Currently serving as Indonesia’s Ambassador to Germany, Arif has also held the position of Deputy for Maritime Sovereignty at Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment. His expertise in navigating Indonesia’s maritime interests adds another layer of depth to Prabowo’s foreign policy team.
“Good Neighbor” policy
As Prabowo shapes his administration’s foreign policy, he has made it clear that Indonesia’s principles remain steadfast. In his own words, Indonesia will continue to adhere to its independent, non-aligned foreign policy. The country will not join any military pacts, reflecting Prabowo’s belief that Indonesia must foster peaceful relations with all nations.
Addressing his inauguration as Indonesia’s eighth president on Sunday morning, Prabowo introduced the concept of “Good Neighbor” to describe Indonesia’s diplomatic ambitions for the next five years, emphasizing that “a thousand friends are too few, one enemy is too many.”
In his speech, Prabowo also touched on Indonesia’s painful history of colonization, oppression, and injustice. Drawing from this past, he expressed unwavering support for Palestinian independence, pledging Indonesia’s readiness to provide aid and assistance to Palestinian civilians caught in the crossfire of war.
As Indonesia navigates this new chapter under Prabowo’s leadership, the world will be watching closely. How will Prabowo advance Indonesia’s standing on the global stage and balance its independent foreign policy with the ever-shifting tides of international relations? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Prabowo is determined to ensure Indonesia’s voice is heard loud and clear, without compromising its values or alliances.
