Jakarta — President-elect Prabowo Subianto was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from the public as he exited the 79th anniversary celebration of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) at the National Monument (Monas), Central Jakarta, on Saturday (October 5).
As the Defense Minister and incoming President made his way out of the event, a large crowd rushed to greet him, eager to take photos and shake hands.
“Pak, Pak, Pak Prabowo, my president, shake hands, take a photo!” the crowd called out to him.
On his way to his car, Prabowo warmly approached the gathered citizens, shaking hands with many of them who had come to watch the parade of military vehicles showcased during the TNI anniversary celebration.
Despite the midday heat, the excitement of the crowd did not wane. Many patiently jostled for the chance to get a special moment with the 2024-2029 president-elect.
Even as Prabowo’s vehicle departed from the Monas area, people continued to line both sides of the road, hoping for a final greeting. In response, Prabowo emerged from the sunroof of his car, waving to the crowd as they eagerly captured the moment on their phones.
The TNI’s 79th anniversary celebration featured an impressive display of 521 main defense system vehicles (alutsista) and 145 classic cars and motorcycles, which paraded in front of the event’s attendees.
Some of these tactical vehicles remained parked along Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, drawing curious onlookers who climbed aboard to explore them. Prabowo continued to acknowledge the enthusiastic crowd, who were still energized by the festivities of the TNI celebration, themed “A Modern TNI with the People, Ready to Guard the Succession of National Leadership for a Progressive Indonesia.” (RR)
