The arrival of President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto in Brazil was a momentous occasion for members of Indonesia’s diaspora. Isaque Hattu, Chair of the Indonesian Diaspora in São Paulo, expressed his joy in welcoming the President enthusiastically. Despite the relatively small number of the Indonesian diaspora in Brazil, their sense of solidarity was unwavering as they greeted their homeland’s leader.
During the welcome event, Hattu had the opportunity to chat informally with Prabowo and shared about his family background. He mentioned that his parents originally hailed from Maluku and Kupang, which prompted a warm response from the President. Prabowo even acknowledged the name Petrus Oktavianus, an Indonesian figure who had been sent to Brazil on assignment in the past.
As their meeting concluded, Hattu expressed his optimism that Prabowo’s leadership would strengthen the ties between Indonesia and Brazil. He emphasized the importance of cultural exchange, grassroots engagement, and enhancing Brazilians’ understanding of Indonesia to foster continued growth in the relationship between the two nations.
