Jeddah, July 2, 2025 — A heartwarming atmosphere enveloped the lobby of a Jeddah hotel as President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, began his official visit to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (July 1). The President was welcomed with cheers from Indonesian elementary school children living in the city.

Lining up neatly in the hotel lobby, the students waved Indonesian and Saudi Arabian flags while chanting enthusiastically, “Welcome, Mr. President!” What began as a formal reception quickly turned into a joyful and emotional gathering.

President Prabowo warmly greeted the children one by one, smiling and posing for photos. His face lit up with genuine happiness as he witnessed the enthusiasm of young Indonesians living far from home.

Amid the cheerful crowd, one student proudly introduced himself.

“My name is Arsad Hanfana Al-Syarabi, Sir!” he exclaimed.

Prabowo smiled and asked, “Where do your parents work?”

“At the Indonesian Embassy, Sir,” Arsad replied confidently.

The President nodded with pride. Before continuing his visit, he shared a simple yet heartfelt message with the children:

“Study well, okay?” said Prabowo.

The children responded in unison, “Yes, Sir!”

The touching encounter also moved members of the Indonesian community in Jeddah, including Hanif Hasanuddin, a representative of the Muhammadiyah Special Branch (PCIM). After shaking hands with the President, Hanif shared his gratitude and hopes for the country’s future.

“Masha Allah, it was such a special moment. It’s rare to meet the President in person, so I’m truly grateful he visited us here. I was able to shake his hand. May the President stay healthy and strong in serving the people, and may Indonesia grow more prosperous and just,” he said.

Joining the President at the hotel were several high-ranking Indonesian officials, including the Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, the Minister of Investment, the Minister of Religious Affairs, the Head of the Hajj Management Agency (BPH), Indonesia’s Consul General in Jeddah, and the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) from the Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh. Also present were staff from the Embassy and Consulate as well as members of the Indonesian diaspora.

President Prabowo’s visit to Saudi Arabia was not only a diplomatic mission but also a powerful moment of connection with the Indonesian community abroad — one that left a lasting impression on the young generation in the Holy Land.