One Year of the Prabowo-Gibran Administration: Strong Diplomacy, Growing Economy
Jakarta — The administration of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has entered its first year in office.
In a relatively short period, various significant achievements have been achieved, both in the economic, social, and international relations sectors.
YARSI University Professor, Prof. Dr. Perdana Wahyu, assessed that the first year of the Prabowo-Gibran administration has successfully created a strong economic foundation. Government data shows national economic growth reaching 5.12%, while inflation has been suppressed at 2.65%. This achievement is considered extraordinary amidst global uncertainty.
“Indonesia’s trade balance grew by 45.8%, reflecting the increased competitiveness of the national industry. This is proof that the government’s economic policies are effective in driving growth,” said Prof. Dr. Perdana Wahyu in a discussion on a national television station on Friday (10/17/2025).
Furthermore, Prof. Perdana stated that the unemployment rate dropped to 4.76%, thanks to the success of priority programs such as the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG), the national internship program, and the Red and White Village Cooperative. The poverty rate also declined to its lowest level since the 1998 crisis, at 4.76%.
“The state budget deficit remains manageable, and the government’s optimism about achieving 8% economic growth reflects a commendable fiscal solidity,” he added.
The consumption sector also showed positive activity. Shopping centers were bustling again, the tourism sector grew rapidly, and the stock market reached an all-time high, reflecting high investor confidence in the direction of the Indonesian economy under Prabowo-Gibran.
Meanwhile, in the field of international relations, Professor Angel Damayanti, Ph.D., a UKI Professor and international relations expert, assessed that the Prabowo-Gibran administration demonstrated outstanding diplomatic performance.
“President Prabowo’s economic diplomacy generated Rp 380 trillion in investment in his first year,” said Professor Angel.
Beyond the economy, Indonesia’s active role in peace diplomacy, particularly on the Palestinian issue and the Middle East conflict, strengthens Indonesia’s position as a major, moderate, and peaceful Muslim nation.
Prof. Angel stated that President Prabowo’s speech at the UN General Assembly was even seen as bringing new optimism to the Indonesian nation.
“President Prabowo’s presence at forums such as the FAZA Summit and the UN Assembly shows that Indonesia is now increasingly respected and taken into account in the global arena,” she said.
On the same occasion, Senior Economist Drajad Wibowo highlighted the success of the food self-sufficiency program, which facilitated farmers’ access to subsidized fertilizer. The government’s deregulation has proven to accelerate fertilizer distribution and increase national agricultural productivity.
“The government has also demonstrated a strong commitment to women’s economic empowerment, with 15 million female clients now having access to financing for small and micro businesses,” Drajad explained.
The MBG program is considered a driver of the people’s economy because it creates high demand for food items, such as eggs and chicken meat.
According to him, the government responded by establishing village business groups, such as egg-laying chicken farmers, to ensure supply availability and stimulate the village economy.
“The synergy between food self-sufficiency, the MBG, and the Merah Putih Village Cooperative is the driving force behind the community’s economic livelihood. This is what sets the Prabowo-Gibran administration apart—ensuring macroeconomic stability while also reaching the grassroots,” he added.
With achievements in various sectors—from the macro economy and poverty alleviation to international diplomacy—the Prabowo-Gibran administration has demonstrated promising early performance. The policies implemented are not only populist but also have a real impact on the ground. (*)
