Rio de Janeiro — The arrival of President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto in Brazil was a proud occasion for members of Indonesia’s diaspora. Among those in attendance was Isaque Hattu, Chair of the Indonesian Diaspora in São Paulo, who greeted the President enthusiastically on Saturday morning (July 5, local time).

“We are truly delighted to welcome President Prabowo and the entire delegation,” said Hattu, who is also well known for his active role in supporting the Indonesian community in Brazil.

He introduced himself directly to the President and shared that, while the Indonesian diaspora in Brazil is relatively small in number, their sense of solidarity remains strong as they welcomed their homeland’s leader.

“I told the President that although there aren’t many of us here, we were very happy to be able to join in welcoming him,” he recounted.

During the occasion, Hattu also had a chance to chat informally with Prabowo and share a bit about his family background.

“He asked me about myself, and I explained that my parents are originally from Maluku and Kupang,” Hattu said.

According to Hattu, the President responded warmly to his story.

“The President said he was pleased to hear about my parents and their work as missionaries in Brazil years ago,” he noted.

Hattu added that Prabowo even recognized the name Petrus Oktavianus, an Indonesian figure who had once been sent on assignment to Brazil.

As their meeting drew to a close, Hattu expressed his hope that Prabowo’s leadership would further strengthen ties between the two nations.

“Through cultural exchange, grassroots engagement, and helping Brazilians better understand the richness of Indonesia, I hope our countries’ relationship will continue to grow,” he concluded.