Magelang — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his desire to use the Maung vehicle as his official state car, a move he views as a display of national pride in domestically produced goods.

In an exclusive interview with Retno Pinasti from SCTV, quoted on Monday (October 28), Prabowo emphasized his pride in using a vehicle manufactured by his own country, Indonesia.

“It’s a matter of national honor and pride; ideally, we should be using products made by our own people,” Prabowo stated.

He further explained that he envisions not only the president using the Maung Garuda, but also ministers, vice ministers, governors, and mayors as a symbol of respect and pride in Indonesia’s manufacturing capabilities.

“I’ve already planned that, if possible, all ministers, vice ministers, directors general, and regional leaders—governors, regents, and mayors—should use vehicles made by Indonesia,” he added.

The Maung Garuda, produced by PT Pindad in Bandung, West Java, has already been used by Prabowo on several official occasions since he was inaugurated as President of Indonesia.

For example, Prabowo traveled from his residence to the MPR/DPR building in a convoy of eight white Maung Garuda MV3 vehicles. He also used the same vehicle to escort former President Joko Widodo to Halim Perdanakusuma Airport on his way back to Solo. Additionally, during the Red and White Cabinet Retreat, Prabowo rode in a Maung Garuda to greet the residents of Magelang along the streets near the Military Academy.

“I just like it; I like its bright color,” Prabowo responded when asked why he favored the white model. (RR)