Indonesia’s new resident Prabowo Subianto has made a strong impression in his first 100 days as president, notably diverging from the approach of his predecessor, Joko “Jokowi” Widodo. Prabowo’s leadership style, characterized by powerful speeches and a deep connection to the military, has set him apart.
Foreign Policy Shift
Unlike Jokowi, who focused more on domestic policies and showed reluctance to engage with international affairs, Prabowo has already undertaken several high-profile foreign trips. Destinations include China, the United States, Brazil, and India. These engagements underscore a shift towards a more proactive foreign policy.
Brics Membership
Indonesia’s rapid accession to BRICS membership in January 2025 marks a significant milestone not previously prioritized by Jokowi. As the first Southeast Asian country to become a permanent member of the group of emerging economies, Indonesia has surpassed Malaysia and Thailand, which have also expressed interest in joining.
Administration and Early Success
The Prabowo administration, alongside Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Jokowi’s eldest son, marked its 100-day milestone recently. Despite the early days, Prabowo has maintained a highly positive public approval rating, hovering around 80 percent. This figure is significantly higher than Jokowi’s initial approval rating in 2015, which stood at approximately 62 percent, and even surpasses Jokowi’s final approval rating from his last term.
Public Approval Amid Challenges
Remarkably, Prabowo’s high approval rating has been achieved despite ongoing challenges in implementing some of his key programs. A notable example is the delayed rollout of free nutritious meals for students and pregnant women.
Looking Ahead
As Prabowo Subianto consolidates his first hundred days in office, the coming months will be crucial in determining the success of his administration. The challenges of implementing his policies and maintaining public support will be key indicators of his leadership effectiveness.
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