Indonesia-India Ties Strengthened: President Subianto Discusses Cultural and Genetic Connections

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, on Saturday (January 25, 2025), during a formal dinner hosted in his honor by President Droupadi Murmu, spoke about the longstanding historical and cultural connections between India and Indonesia. He underscored the profound impact of ancient Indian civilization on Indonesian traditions, language, and genetic heritage.  

President Subianto sheds light on India's influence on the Indonesian linguistic landscape and genetic lineage analysis.  

He remarked, “A few weeks ago, I underwent a genetic analysis, and the results revealed that I have Indian ancestry. Everyone knows that whenever I hear Indian music, I instinctively start dancing.”  

Additionally, President Subianto commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance and unwavering dedication to eradicating poverty and uplifting the underprivileged. He acknowledged that he gained valuable insights from PM Modi during his brief stay in India.  

Expressing his admiration, the Indonesian President stated that he takes great pride in being in India and extended his heartfelt wishes for “prosperity, harmony, and greatness” to the Indian people in the years ahead.  

Mr. Subianto further commented, “I am deeply honored to be here in India... I am not a career politician, nor an experienced diplomat; I speak from my heart. Although my visit has been brief, I have learned a great deal from Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and dedication. His efforts to combat poverty, support the marginalized, and empower the most vulnerable sections of society serve as an inspiration to us.”  

“I would like to extend my sincere wishes for prosperity, peace, and success to the people of India in the years to come. I hope that Indonesia and India will continue to foster a strong and enduring friendship,” he concluded.  

At the invitation of PM Modi, President Subianto embarked on a State Visit to India from January 23-26. He also participated as the Chief Guest at India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations. He was accompanied by a distinguished delegation comprising several Ministers, senior government officials from Indonesia, and representatives from the business sector.  

During President Subianto’s visit to Delhi, five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed and renewed across diverse sectors, including healthcare, traditional medicine, and maritime security.  

The MoU on Healthcare Cooperation was formalized between India’s Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Indonesia’s Ministry of Health.  

Additionally, the agreement on Maritime Security and Safety Cooperation between the Indian Coast Guard and Indonesia’s BAKAMLA was renewed.  

Another MoU was established in the realm of Traditional Medicine Quality Assurance between the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homeopathy (under the Ministry of AYUSH) and the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority.