President-elect Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia has been recognized as one of the top 50 most influential Muslims in the world for the 2025 term, securing the 18th position in The Muslim 500 list. He is ranked alongside other prominent Muslim leaders such as Jordan’s King Abdullah II, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Prabowo’s close relationship with these influential leaders was evident as they promptly congratulated him after his victory in the 2024 Indonesian presidential election, highlighting strong diplomatic ties.
Throughout his political career, Prabowo has positioned himself as a strong nationalist leader, focusing on economic development, food security, and a more assertive foreign policy according to The Muslim 500.
As Indonesia’s Defense Minister, Prabowo has made significant contributions to the nation, including supporting fellow Muslim countries like Palestine. He sent humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Indonesian Navy’s hospital ship and personally donated to Palestine while offering scholarships to Palestinian students.
At the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Prabowo expressed Indonesia’s readiness to send peacekeeping forces to the Gaza conflict zone if required by the UN.
As Indonesia’s 8th President-elect, Prabowo is expected to face challenges in uniting the diverse nation, focusing on economic growth, and social welfare. His presidency is anticipated to bring changes to Indonesia’s domestic and foreign policies, potentially reshaping the country’s role in Southeast Asia and on the global stage.