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President Prabowo Subianto Emphasizes National Resilience and Self-Sufficiency at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi

by Iffa Jayyana September 12, 2026

written by Iffa Jayyana

President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia underscored the critical importance of national resilience and economic self-sufficiency during his address at the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi, India, on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Speaking during a high-level closed session titled Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism, the Indonesian leader articulated a vision where domestic stability serves as the foundational pillar for effective international cooperation. His remarks come at a pivotal time as the BRICS bloc—originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—continues to expand its influence and membership, positioning itself as a central counterweight in the evolving landscape of global governance.

The focus on self-reliance reflects a broader strategic shift in Indonesian foreign policy, which seeks to balance its non-aligned tradition with proactive participation in emerging economic powerhouses. President Prabowo argued that true sovereignty in the 21st century is not merely a political construct but an economic reality anchored in the state’s capacity to provide for its populace.

The Foundation of National Sovereignty

Addressing fellow heads of state and government representatives, President Prabowo laid out a clear hierarchy of national priorities. He contended that international alliances, including membership in BRICS, are most effective when member nations possess the internal strength to sustain their own populations. According to the President, the strength of a nation begins at home, starting with the fundamental ability to guarantee food security, ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply, provide quality education, and create economic opportunities that lead to widespread prosperity.

"With unity, we become stronger," President Prabowo stated during the session. "However, strength must always originate from within—through our ability to meet the food requirements of our citizens, secure the energy supplies they depend on, educate the next generation, and provide them with the pathways to a dignified and prosperous life. This is the only way to build a nation that is truly resilient and independent."

This emphasis on "bottom-up" resilience is a core tenet of the Prabowo administration’s domestic policy, which emphasizes downstreaming industries and increasing agricultural productivity to reduce dependence on volatile global supply chains.

Contextualizing the 18th BRICS Summit

The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi represents a milestone for the bloc, which has increasingly sought to define itself as a champion of the "Global South." Since the bloc’s initial expansion in 2023, the organization has navigated the complexities of integrating new member states while attempting to standardize its collective economic agenda. The theme of this year’s summit, Inclusive Global Governance, addresses the long-standing critique by developing nations that international financial institutions—such as the IMF and the World Bank—are skewed toward the interests of the Global North.

For Indonesia, joining the dialogue and formalizing deeper ties with BRICS is seen as a strategic maneuver to broaden market access and strengthen diplomatic leverage. The summit serves as a platform for Jakarta to advocate for a more equitable global order, where the interests of developing economies are prioritized in trade negotiations, climate finance, and technology transfer.

Chronology of Indonesia’s Engagement with BRICS

Indonesia’s journey toward its current involvement with BRICS has been marked by a cautious but deliberate progression:

2023: During the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, Indonesia participated as an observer, signaling its interest in the group’s economic potential without immediately seeking full membership.
Early 2024: Following his election, President Prabowo signaled that his administration would pursue an active, "good neighbor" policy that seeks economic partnerships regardless of ideological divisions.
Late 2024–2025: Technical working groups were established between the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and BRICS secretariats to assess the feasibility of integration and its impact on Indonesia’s existing trade agreements.
September 12, 2026: President Prabowo attends the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in Indonesia’s high-level engagement with the bloc’s leadership.

Economic Data and Strategic Implications

The push for resilience is supported by economic realities facing the Indonesian archipelago. Indonesia, as the largest economy in Southeast Asia, maintains a GDP growth rate consistently hovering around 5%. However, the country remains vulnerable to global price fluctuations in energy and agricultural commodities.

Data from the Indonesian Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) indicates that while the nation has made strides in food security, the import dependency for certain commodities—such as wheat and sugar—remains a strategic vulnerability. Furthermore, the global energy transition presents both a challenge and an opportunity; as a major coal exporter, Indonesia is under pressure to pivot toward renewable energy sources. Prabowo’s focus on energy security, as mentioned at the summit, is intrinsically linked to the national "Green Energy Transition" program, which aims to leverage Indonesia’s massive nickel reserves for the global battery and electric vehicle (EV) supply chain.

Analysts suggest that alignment with BRICS could offer Indonesia a hedge against Western protectionism. By diversifying trade routes and exploring alternative payment mechanisms—such as the potential use of local currencies in cross-border transactions—Indonesia aims to insulate its economy from the shocks of the U.S. dollar’s volatility.

Global Reactions and Diplomatic Perspectives

The rhetoric adopted by President Prabowo in New Delhi has been welcomed by other emerging economies within the bloc. Observers in India and China have noted that Indonesia’s pragmatic approach—focusing on food and energy security—aligns closely with the "BRICS Plus" objective of fostering internal cooperation rather than external confrontation.

Dr. Aris Nugroho, a senior analyst at the Institute for Global Strategic Studies, commented on the significance of the address: "President Prabowo is recalibrating the narrative. By focusing on food and energy, he is shifting the conversation from abstract geopolitical alignments to concrete, tangible benefits for the citizen. This is a language that resonates across the Global South. It effectively legitimizes the bloc as a vehicle for real development rather than just a diplomatic club."

However, Western diplomats have monitored the summit with a degree of caution. There is lingering concern that the expansion of BRICS could lead to a fragmented global trading system. In response to these concerns, the Indonesian government has consistently maintained that its involvement with BRICS does not signal a departure from its traditional "Free and Active" foreign policy. Instead, it is framed as a policy of "multiplexity"—engaging with all major power centers to maximize national interest.

Broader Impact on Multilateralism

The 18th BRICS Summit highlights the limitations of current multilateral frameworks. The discussions in New Delhi reflect a growing consensus among participating nations that the status quo of global governance is increasingly incapable of addressing the challenges of the 21st century, such as climate change, pandemics, and debt crises.

By emphasizing "Inclusive Global Governance," the summit is attempting to propose an alternative architecture. President Prabowo’s call for self-sufficiency acts as a stabilizing element within this, suggesting that a strong, independent Indonesia is a better partner to the world than one reliant on the charity of others.

The implications for Indonesia are twofold. Domestically, the government is likely to accelerate investments in infrastructure and agriculture to meet the standards of the "resilience" model proposed by the President. Internationally, Indonesia is expected to play a bridging role, using its position to advocate for middle-power interests and ensuring that the BRICS agenda remains focused on economic development and poverty alleviation.

Conclusion

The address delivered by President Prabowo Subianto in New Delhi serves as a defining moment for his administration’s foreign and domestic policy. By linking national resilience to the broader goals of the BRICS bloc, the President has articulated a clear, pragmatic path forward. As the summit concludes, the world will be watching to see how these ambitious goals translate into specific policy outcomes, trade agreements, and regional cooperation.

For now, the message from the Indonesian delegation is clear: the path to global influence is paved with the strength of one’s own nation. In an era of increasing uncertainty, this focus on domestic foundation, coupled with strategic international partnership, may well be the blueprint for Indonesia’s trajectory as a rising global player. The 18th BRICS Summit has not only solidified Indonesia’s seat at the table but has also provided a clear framework for how the nation intends to navigate the complex waters of international diplomacy in the years to come.

September 12, 2026 0 comment

National News

President Prabowo Subianto Champions Global South Unity and Bandung Spirit at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi

by Laily UPN September 12, 2026

written by Laily UPN

NEW DELHI — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto delivered a powerful call for international solidarity on Saturday, September 12, 2026, addressing world leaders at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India. Rooted in historical principles of anti-colonialism and equitable development, President Prabowo invoked traditional Indonesian wisdom to emphasize the critical necessity of unity among developing nations—collectively known as the Global South—in navigating complex contemporary geopolitical and economic landscapes.

Upon his arrival at the summit venue, President Prabowo was formally welcomed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between two of the world’s largest democracies. Against the backdrop of shifting global trade dynamics, supply chain vulnerabilities, and geopolitical fragmentation, the Indonesian leader’s address resonated deeply with the core objectives of the BRICS bloc: fostering multilateralism, reforming global governance structures, and safeguarding the interests of emerging economies.

The Bandung Spirit and Historical Continuity

At the heart of President Prabowo’s address was a historical reflection on the shared struggles of Asian and African nations. By drawing a direct line between contemporary geopolitical challenges and the historic 1955 Asian-African Conference held in Bandung, Indonesia, the president contextualized the modern Global South movement as a continuation of a decades-long pursuit of sovereignty and self-determination.

"There is an old saying in Indonesia, ‘United we stand, divided we fall,’" President Prabowo told the assembly of heads of state and government delegates. He elaborated that this proverb transcends a mere rhetorical flourish, serving instead as a foundational philosophy that historically empowered nations to break free from colonial domination and demand a seat at the international table.

"This simple wisdom reflects the spirit that united the countries of the Global South, the nations of Asia and Afrika, decades ago in Bandung," he added, invoking the memory of the historic summit that laid the groundwork for the Non-Aligned Movement. By reminding the international community of the Bandung principles—mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-aggression, and equitable economic cooperation—Prabowo positioned Indonesia as a consistent advocate for multilateral fairness.

Chronology and Arrival in New Delhi

The 18th BRICS Summit commenced under stringent security and high diplomatic expectations in New Delhi. President Prabowo’s participation follows a series of active international engagements aimed at expanding Indonesia’s strategic economic partnerships and multilateral diplomacy.

Upon landing at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the Indonesian delegation was received by senior Indian government officials before proceeding to the official welcome ceremony hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The bilateral handshake between Modi and Prabowo underscored the deepening ties between Jakarta and New Delhi, particularly within the frameworks of Indo-Pacific cooperation and South-South dialogue.

The summit agenda in New Delhi focuses heavily on reforming international financial institutions, enhancing trade resilience among emerging markets, and addressing energy transitions in the developing world. As an influential voice within Southeast Asia and a prospective partner or member of the expanding BRICS architecture, Indonesia’s positioning at the summit has drawn intense scrutiny from global analysts and international media outlets.

Contextualizing BRICS and the Rise of the Global South

The BRICS grouping—originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—has undergone significant structural expansion in recent years, welcoming additional member states to amplify the economic weight of the developing world. Collectively, the bloc represents a substantial portion of the global population, geographic territory, and combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP), challenging traditional Western-led economic paradigms.

In recent years, the discourse within BRICS has shifted from theoretical economic alignment to practical mechanisms of de-dollarization, alternative payment systems, and resilient supply chains. For nations like Indonesia, which maintains a strictly independent and active foreign policy—summed up locally as bebas aktif—engagement with BRICS offers a strategic platform to diversify trade partnerships without compromising non-aligned diplomatic postures.

Economic analysts note that the Global South currently accounts for a rapidly growing share of global economic growth, yet historical governance structures established post-World War II—such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the United Nations Security Council—remain heavily skewed toward Western dominance. President Prabowo’s emphasis on unity directly addresses this structural imbalance, arguing that fragmented developing economies remain vulnerable to external economic shocks and protectionist policies.

Official Responses and Diplomatic Reactions

Diplomatic circles in New Delhi and Jakarta have responded positively to President Prabowo’s framing of international relations. Observers noted that invoking the Bandung spirit provides a unifying cultural and historical anchor for BRICS members and guest nations alike, bridging geographic and ideological divides among diverse participants.

Indian government representatives praised Indonesia’s constructive role in promoting regional stability in Southeast Asia and its active contribution to broader South-South cooperation. Meanwhile, trade and foreign policy experts in Jakarta highlighted that Prabowo’s speech signals Indonesia’s readiness to take on a more prominent leadership role on the global stage, advocating not only for national economic interests but for the collective welfare of developing nations worldwide.

"President Prabowo’s message is a timely reminder that economic resilience cannot be achieved in isolation," remarked a prominent international relations analyst based in Jakarta. "By recalling the solidarity of the Bandung Conference, Indonesia is reminding the world that the Global South possesses both the demographic magnitude and the moral authority to demand a fairer global economic architecture."

Broader Impact and Geopolitical Implications

The implications of President Prabowo’s address at the 18th BRICS Summit extend far beyond the immediate diplomatic proceedings in New Delhi. As global trade faces headwinds from rising tariffs, technological decoupling, and regional conflicts, the call for unity among emerging economies serves as a vital counterweight to protectionist tendencies.

Furthermore, Indonesia’s strategic balancing act—maintaining robust economic and diplomatic relations with both traditional Western partners and emerging blocs like BRICS—exemplifies the pragmatic foreign policy approach characteristic of Jakarta’s modern administration. By refusing to be drawn into binary geopolitical rivalries, Indonesia continues to position itself as a trusted bridge builder between developed and developing nations.

As the summit concludes, the focus will shift toward the implementation of joint communiqués, economic cooperation agreements, and multilateral frameworks discussed in New Delhi. Whether the solidarity championed by President Prabowo translates into concrete institutional reforms within global governance bodies remains a critical question for international policymakers. However, by firmly anchoring the current geopolitical discourse in the historical legacy of the Bandung Conference, Indonesia has successfully reaffirmed its enduring commitment to a multipolar, equitable, and interconnected world order.

September 12, 2026 0 comment

National News

President Prabowo Subianto Emphasizes National Resilience and Strategic Autonomy at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi

by Lina Irawan September 12, 2026

written by Lina Irawan

President Prabowo Subianto took a firm stance on the necessity of national resilience and strategic autonomy during his address at the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi, India, on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Speaking during the exclusive session titled "Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism," the Indonesian leader articulated a vision for a multipolar world order where developing nations prioritize domestic stability as the primary engine for sustainable sovereignty. His remarks underscore a pivotal shift in Indonesia’s foreign policy, signaling a move toward greater integration with the Global South while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the country’s independent and active diplomatic doctrine.

The summit, which gathered heads of state and government from the expanded BRICS bloc, served as a platform for President Prabowo to advocate for a more equitable global governance structure. By focusing on food security, energy transition, and human capital development, the President argued that a nation’s influence on the international stage is directly proportional to its ability to secure the welfare of its citizens.

The Foundation of Sovereignty: A Domestic-First Approach

At the heart of President Prabowo’s message was the conviction that external strength is merely a reflection of internal stability. Addressing the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and other member nations, he emphasized that the bedrock of any sovereign state lies in its capacity to provide for its population.

"Strength always begins at home with our people—through our ability to meet their food requirements, ensure the energy supplies they need, educate our children, and provide them with the opportunity to live prosperous lives," President Prabowo stated. He argued that when a nation successfully manages these fundamental pillars, it insulates itself from the volatility of global markets and the coercive pressures of external geopolitical forces.

This perspective aligns with the current Indonesian administration’s focus on downstreaming industrial policies and agricultural modernization. By controlling the supply chain of critical commodities and investing heavily in domestic processing, Indonesia aims to transition from a raw material exporter to a sophisticated manufacturing hub, thereby reducing its reliance on foreign capital and technology imports.

Contextualizing the 18th BRICS Summit

The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the bloc following its major expansion in 2024. As the group seeks to redefine global governance, the discussions in India focused heavily on the reform of international financial institutions, the promotion of local currency settlements to bypass dollar hegemony, and the establishment of a more inclusive framework for multilateral trade.

For Indonesia, participation in this summit is part of a broader strategy to diversify its economic partnerships. While Indonesia maintains strong ties with Western economies, the government has increasingly looked toward the BRICS framework as a vehicle to promote the interests of the Global South. The theme of "Inclusive Global Governance" resonated with the Indonesian delegation, which has long called for a reform of the United Nations Security Council and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to better reflect the realities of the 21st century.

Geopolitical Implications and Strategic Autonomy

President Prabowo’s assertion that Indonesia does not wish to be "dictated" by any specific power bloc serves as a clear message to both traditional and emerging global powers. In an era of intensifying US-China competition, Indonesia is carving out a path that prioritizes national interest over bloc loyalty.

"We do not like being dictated to by one or two certain powers. We must be resilient and then we will be truly independent. We have strengthened our foundations to keep the peace and build trust," the President added during his session. This sentiment reflects a long-standing Indonesian policy of "non-alignment," modernized for an era where economic security is inseparable from national security.

Prabowo di KTT BRICS: Negara Harus Tangguh dan Mandiri : Okezone News

Analysts note that Prabowo’s emphasis on "resilience" is a direct response to the global supply chain disruptions witnessed over the past few years. By building a robust domestic industrial base, Indonesia seeks to act as a stabilizer in Southeast Asia, ensuring that it remains an indispensable partner rather than a passive observer in global affairs.

Data-Driven Development: The Economic Underpinnings

To support the vision of a resilient nation, the Indonesian government has implemented a series of ambitious economic programs aimed at achieving self-sufficiency. Key sectors include:

Food Security: Through large-scale irrigation projects and the optimization of paddy fields in regions like Merauke, the government aims to achieve total rice self-sufficiency by 2027.
Energy Transition: Indonesia’s strategy involves a dual approach: maximizing domestic coal reserves for energy security while simultaneously scaling up geothermal and solar power infrastructure. By 2030, the government targets a significant reduction in oil import dependency.
Human Capital: Increased budgetary allocations for education and vocational training are designed to equip the demographic dividend—a young, productive population—with the skills necessary for a digital and green economy.

These initiatives are not merely domestic projects; they are tools of statecraft. As the President noted, a state that can feed, power, and educate its own people is inherently more capable of resisting external pressures during diplomatic negotiations.

Reactions and International Perspectives

The response from fellow BRICS leaders and international observers has been largely positive, with many viewing Indonesia’s proactive role in the summit as a sign of its growing confidence as a middle power. Representatives from other developing nations in the "Global South" have echoed Prabowo’s concerns regarding the disproportionate influence of Western-led financial systems.

Financial analysts monitoring the summit have pointed out that while Indonesia’s push for autonomy is popular domestically, it requires a delicate balancing act. To maintain high growth rates, Indonesia still requires significant foreign direct investment (FDI). Therefore, the challenge for the administration lies in fostering domestic self-reliance without alienating global investors who are wary of protectionist trade policies.

However, the prevailing view in Jakarta is that by establishing a clear, predictable, and resilient domestic market, Indonesia will actually become a more attractive destination for "quality" investment—investments that focus on long-term value creation rather than short-term resource extraction.

Looking Ahead: The Path to 2030

As the summit concludes, the focus shifts to the implementation of the New Delhi Declaration. For Indonesia, the immediate goal is to leverage the BRICS network to facilitate technology transfer and access to new markets. The administration’s focus on "Inclusive Global Governance" suggests that Indonesia will continue to champion the causes of the developing world in upcoming forums, including the G20 and APEC.

President Prabowo’s rhetoric signals a departure from the reactive diplomacy of the past. By framing national resilience as the ultimate tool for peace, he is setting a tone for his administration that is both assertive and pragmatically focused. Whether this approach will lead to a fundamental shift in the global order remains to be seen, but it is clear that Indonesia intends to be a leading voice in that transition.

The 18th BRICS Summit has served as a crucible for these ideas. As the world faces mounting challenges—from climate change to fragmented trade regimes—the call for "resilience and independence" is one that is finding resonance far beyond the borders of Indonesia. For the Indonesian government, the next few years will be defined by its ability to translate these ambitious principles into concrete economic realities, proving that a country that stands on its own feet is best equipped to walk with others as an equal partner on the world stage.

In summary, President Prabowo’s participation in the New Delhi summit marks a defining moment in Indonesia’s modern foreign policy. By grounding his nation’s international posture in the tangible realities of domestic welfare, energy security, and industrial autonomy, he is redefining what it means to be an emerging power in a multipolar world. As Indonesia continues to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, its commitment to these principles will undoubtedly shape its trajectory as a key player in the global arena, ensuring that its voice remains both heard and respected in the halls of international power.

September 12, 2026 0 comment