Prabowo Subianto has recently been in the news due to his active role in international diplomacy and domestic policy initiatives. He announced Indonesia's intention to provide temporary shelter for Palestinians affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict, reflecting the country's stance on humanitarian issues. Additionally, his administration has faced criticism regarding press freedom and potential backsliding into authoritarian practices reminiscent of former President Suharto's era. Economic challenges have also emerged, with Indonesia's stock market declining and the rupiah hitting lows not seen since the 1997-1998 financial crisis, raising concerns about his economic policies.
Born on October 17, 1951, Prabowo Subianto is an Indonesian politician, businessman, and former Army lieutenant general. He is the son of prominent economist Sumitro Djojohadikusumo. Prabowo has held various significant positions, including Minister of Defence, a role he assumed in October 2023. His political career has been marked by a controversial past, including allegations of human rights abuses during his military service. Despite this, he has maintained a strong political presence and enjoys considerable support domestically, although analysts note a lack of clear direction in his foreign policy.
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Indonesian journalist Francisca Christy Rosana received a severed pig's head and a box of decapitated rats, amid rising threats against Tempo media. These incidents highlight increasing intimidation of journalists under President Prabowo Subianto's administration, raising concerns about press freedom in Indonesia as the country observes Ramadan.
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Indonesia's newly launched sovereign wealth fund, Danantara, aims to boost economic growth to 8% but faces investor skepticism amid a declining rupiah and concerns over fiscal policies. The fund, with an initial commitment of $20 billion, is designed to manage state-owned enterprises' assets and drive growth despite recent political unrest.
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Southeast Asian nations, particularly Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, are grappling with new US tariffs reaching up to 49%. ASEAN chair Anwar Ibrahim emphasizes the need for unity and resilience in response to these economic pressures, which could signal further challenges ahead.
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As of April 15, 2025, Gaza is experiencing severe humanitarian conditions, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres describing it as a 'killing field.' Aid has been blocked for over a month, leading to widespread shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. The situation has escalated amid ongoing military actions and stalled ceasefire negotiations.
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Indonesia's Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto announced plans to evacuate around 1,000 wounded and traumatized Palestinians from Gaza to Indonesia for temporary care. This initiative aims to support victims until they recover and conditions in Gaza improve. The move reflects Indonesia's commitment to Palestinian independence and humanitarian aid amidst ongoing conflict.
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Jordanian authorities arrested 16 individuals linked to the Muslim Brotherhood, accused of plotting attacks using rockets and drones. The arrests followed a surveillance operation that began in 2021, revealing plans to manufacture missiles locally. This development highlights growing security concerns amid regional instability, particularly related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
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Indonesia has officially denied reports that Russia requested to establish a military base in Papua. The Foreign Ministry emphasized its commitment to a non-aligned foreign policy, while Australian officials expressed concerns over regional security implications. The situation has sparked political debate in Australia amid an election campaign.