As someone who has known President Prabowo Subianto for many years, I am not at all surprised by the way he has approached his first 100 days in office.
Those who have worked with him will recognize his relentless focus, disciplined leadership and determination to deliver results. This is a man who has spent a lifetime living by the principle that leadership is not about words; it is about action.
From his days in the military, where he served on the front lines during some of Indonesia’s most challenging moments, to his political career, Prabowo has always been a man of his word. As president, he has carried the same sense of mission, honoring the promises he made to the Indonesian people.
In these first 100 days, his administration has acted with urgency and purpose to deliver on its election pledges. The results speak for themselves. Social programs are up and running, infrastructure projects are advancing and fiscal discipline is being upheld.
The policies launched during this time are already improving lives and laying the foundations for Indonesia’s transformation into a modern, dynamic and respected nation.
One of the clearest examples of his commitment to action is the free school lunch program – a key campaign pledge that is already being implemented across the country.
This initiative is about much more than just providing food. Proper nutrition improves children’s performance in school and gives them a better chance to succeed in life. By ensuring that children can focus on their studies, this program is an investment in Indonesia’s greatest asset: its people.
Unsurprisingly, infrastructure has also been a major priority. Roads, ports and digital networks are being developed at a remarkable pace, with the aim of connecting Indonesia’s vast archipelago more effectively.
For a country as large and geographically complex as Indonesia, these projects are essential—not just for boosting trade and economic growth but also for strengthening social cohesion.
These are not prestige projects; they are practical solutions to long-standing challenges designed to reduce barriers and give businesses the tools they need to thrive.
However, perhaps the most important element that distinguishes the Prabowo administration is its commitment to fiscal responsibility. Throughout its history, Indonesia has seen leaders who have promised the sky without considering the long-term consequences and costs of their actions.
President Prabowo’s administration is very different. Fiscal discipline has been a hallmark of his government, ensuring that every rupiah that is spent creates real value for the people.
The social programs launched so far may be ambitious, but they are carefully designed to be both impactful and sustainable. This is not a government chasing short-term gains or irresponsible populism. It is one that is carefully managing the resources the people have entrusted it with to build a stronger future.
It is this sense of responsibility that drives the president’s fight against corruption. For too long, corruption has drained Indonesia’s resources and undermined its potential. President Prabowo has made it clear that this will no longer be tolerated.
His administration has taken early steps to increase monitoring of public procurement, crack down on illegal practices and promote greater transparency across all levels of government. While this battle will not be won overnight, these first steps send a powerful message: Indonesia’s resources are for its people, not for personal enrichment.
Under President Prabowo’s leadership, Indonesia is also asserting itself as a serious player in global affairs. In forums like the G20 and APEC, the country has taken a leadership role on issues such as fair trade, climate action, the war in Ukraine and global governance reforms.
The administration’s balanced diplomacy—deepening ties with China while strengthening partnerships with the United States—has positioned Indonesia as a stabilizing force in an increasingly polarized world.
During a trip to the United Kingdom in November, President Prabowo walked away with US$8.5 billion in investment commitments. Other recent developments, from accession to BRICS, to bilateral agreements in renewable energy, infrastructure and education, not only benefit Indonesia but also contribute to regional and global development.
This is not about projecting power for its own sake but about demonstrating that Indonesia is a nation with the vision and capacity to help address shared global challenges.
These first 100 days are just the beginning, but they give ample reason for optimism about Indonesia’s future. The foundations laid so far—in social policy, infrastructure, and global diplomacy—are just the first steps in a much longer journey for our country.
However, President Prabowo has made it clear that the hard work of transforming Indonesia will continue throughout his presidency with the same urgency and discipline that has characterized these early days.
The road ahead will not be without its challenges. Corruption, bureaucracy and global uncertainty are serious. But Indonesia’s history is one of resilience, determination, and innovation. These qualities will guide the nation as it builds a future where every Indonesian can thrive.
Sugiono is Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia
It is gratifying to read this essay about the new Indonesian government. Having visited Indonesia and admired its people and culture, I am happy to imagine them moving forward in the responsible way described. However, one is forced to note that the essay was written by an important member of the new government.