Jakarta – Presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto looked very pleased as he embraced his running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka who just completed his debate performance in Jakarta on Friday evening.

He applauded Gibran's adept handling of economic issues and governance queries on the debate stage.

Gibran, the eldest son of President Joko Widodo, retained his composure and well-informed responses in facing inquiries from seasoned political rivals Mohammad Mahfud and Muhaimin Iskandar on the debate stage.

"To be honest, I'm very proud of my running mate," Prabowo told reporters at the debate venue in the Jakarta Convention Center.

On a scale from 0 to 10, Prabowo said he would rate Gibran's performance at a near-perfect 9.9. "That's my objective opinion. Now people understand that we are serious contenders," Prabowo said.

Known for being reserved in speeches, Gibran surprised many with his composed delivery and fact-based explanations, drawing from his governing experience as the Mayor of Solo to articulate economic programs and counter criticisms from Mahfud, the current chief security minister, and Muhaimin, the chairman of the National Awakening Party (PKB).

At times, Gibran invoked his father's quotes in defending substantial initiatives like the relocation of the national capital to East Kalimantan and the policy to ban raw mineral ore exports.

In addition to policy discussions, the 36-year-old presented populist programs, such as initiatives for free milk and lunch for children and tax exemptions for micro-businesses.

The VP candidates' debate centered around economic and investment themes.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/prabowo-very-proud-of-gibran-after-debate-performanc