Celvin Moniaga Sipahutar, New York – President Prabowo Subianto said Wednesday it was a great honor for him and for Indonesia to deliver his speech as the third speaker at the United Nations General Assembly, marking the earliest speaking slot ever given to an Indonesian leader in the forum's history.
Prabowo followed Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and US President Donald Trump, who traditionally occupy the first and second slots. Since 1955, Brazil has opened the assembly as a diplomatic tradition, while the United States, as host nation, always speaks second.
With his early placement this year, Prabowo said the honor belonged not only to him but to Indonesia's growing role in global affairs.
"I think this is an honor. I was able to speak in a very respected order – after Brazil, which is always first, and the United States, which is always second. Then the opportunity was given to Indonesia," Prabowo told Indonesian journalists in New York.
"I believe this is a form of respect and recognition for Indonesia," he added.
The significance was not lost on Prabowo, who described the appearance as deeply meaningful, not only because it was his UN debut but also because it elevated Indonesia's voice on the global stage.
During his speech, which drew applause from delegates, Prabowo reiterated Indonesia's commitment to supporting the United Nations through peacekeeping missions, financial contributions, and consistent backing for Palestinian statehood.
His energetic delivery also caught the attention of Trump, who was recorded on camera praising him afterward.
"Great speech, you did a great job, pounding at that table," Trump told Prabowo. "I said, 'How would you like to deal with him when you left? It's not easy.' You did a great job. Thank you very much."
When asked about the compliment, Prabowo downplayed it.
"He (Trump) likes to joke, so I didn't really realize that he was praising me," Prabowo said with a smile.
Regarding his speaking style, Prabowo added briefly: "Maybe that's just my style."
A historic slot for Indonesia
Indonesia has traditionally spoken later in the UNGA lineup. Founding father Sukarno once spoke 46th, while former presidents Suharto, Megawati Soekarnoputri, and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono took the floor between the 16th and 61st slots. Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, who attended virtually during the pandemic, twice appeared in the 16th position.
Prabowo is also the first Indonesian president in a decade to personally address the General Assembly in New York. Indonesia's participation had been limited to virtual speeches by Jokowi or in-person remarks by vice presidents and ministers.