Jakarta — President-elect Prabowo Subianto has been named one of the most influential Muslim figures in the world for 2025, ranking 18th out of 500 notable figures. This recognition was published in The Muslim 500: The World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims 2025. Prabowo ranks above several other prominent global figures, including Egypt’s President Abdul Fattah Said Hussein Khalil as-Sisi.

“Throughout his political career, Prabowo has positioned himself as a strong nationalist leader, emphasizing economic development, food security, and a more assertive foreign policy,” stated The Muslim 500, as quoted on Wednesday (October 9).

The publication highlighted Prabowo’s significant victory in the 2024 presidential election as a key factor in his global appeal, noting that the Indonesian public sees him as capable of driving the nation toward greater progress and prosperity, especially on the international stage.

“Prabowo’s military background appeals to those seeking a strong hand in government, while his economic policies attract support from a broad spectrum of society,” the review noted.

As Indonesia’s Defense Minister, Prabowo has made substantial contributions to the nation, including his focus on aiding fellow Muslims in other countries, particularly Palestine.

In January 2024, Prabowo sent the Indonesian Navy’s hospital ship, KRI dr. Radjiman Wedyodiningrat-992, to deliver 240 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza. He also made a personal donation of Rp 5 billion to Palestine and provided 22 scholarships to Palestinian students to study at Indonesia’s Defense University.

During the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue 2024 held in Singapore from May 31 to June 2, Prabowo boldly expressed Indonesia’s readiness to send peacekeeping forces to the war-torn Gaza region.

“If needed and requested by the UN, we are ready to contribute a significant peacekeeping force to monitor a potential ceasefire and provide protection and security to all parties,” Prabowo declared at the forum.

As Indonesia’s upcoming 8th President, Prabowo is expected to face the challenge of uniting the country, focusing on economic growth and social welfare.

“His presidency is likely to signal a shift in Indonesia’s domestic and foreign policies, potentially reshaping the country’s role in Southeast Asia and on the global stage,” The Muslim 500 concluded. (RR)