May 7, 2025 — Jakarta — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto personally welcomed global figure and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday morning (May 7). With a broad smile and an outstretched hand, Prabowo greeted Gates the moment he stepped out of his vehicle.

The warm gesture reflected a spirit of close friendship and deep respect toward Gates. Both men wore dark gray suits, and their brief initial exchange set a cordial tone for the visit.

The meeting was not merely ceremonial—it marked the start of a strategic dialogue on global collaboration in critical areas such as public health, nutrition, financial inclusion, and digital public infrastructure.

Several key members of the Indonesian cabinet were present to accompany the President in this important reception, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono, Minister of State Secretariat Prasetyo Hadi, Minister of Investment Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid, Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin, and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.

Following the official welcome, Prabowo and Gates held a closed-door meeting. They were also scheduled to visit a local school in Jakarta to observe the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program.