Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Tuesday declared that he has Indian DNA, urging his people to learn from India's experience, which has profoundly shaped Indonesia's civilization and culture. Speaking at an Indian diaspora event in Jakarta alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top Indonesian ministers, Prabowo recalled being the chief guest at India's Republic Day in 2025, just three months after taking office.
Genome Test Reveals Indian DNA
Prabowo said a genome sequencing test conducted before his state visit to India revealed Indian DNA. "And that's why I think every time I hear some music, especially Indian music, I find my body moving," he remarked lightheartedly. He added that his ministers and generals also like to dance and sing, joking that "maybe most of them have Indian DNA."
Shared Heritage and Democracy
Prabowo emphasized that Indonesia's civilization and culture are strongly influenced by India, noting that around 50% of the Indonesian language is derived from Sanskrit and many Indonesian names are Sanskritic. He described himself as a "great admirer" of PM Modi and said he has copied many of his policies. Recalling that Indonesia's first President Sukarno was the chief guest at India's first Republic Day in 1950, Prabowo said both nations have always maintained friendly ties.
PM Modi responded that Prabowo is a "true friend of India" and that his statement touched the hearts of Indians. "This DNA is made of mutual trust, made of shared heritage, made of shared memories," Modi said.
Commitment to Democracy
Prabowo highlighted that India and Indonesia are two of the three largest democracies in the world. "We must strive to maintain democracy," he said, calling it the best system for justice, hope, and inclusiveness. He praised the Indian Election Commission, stating, "We are very closely learning from them."
