Indonesian president attends China’s WWII commemoration amid nationwide unrest and protests
President Prabowo Subianto has departed for Beijing to attend China’s Victory Day military parade at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, despite Indonesia still grappling with widespread protests and casualties at home.
A Trip Amid Rising Protests
On Tuesday (September 2, 2025), Prabowo Subianto left for China after initially postponing his visit due to escalating unrest in Indonesia. According to Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, the Chinese government had made strong requests for Prabowo’s presence at the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end.
Indonesia has seen demonstrations in at least 107 locations since August 25, leaving 10 people dead, according to the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM). Most deaths were linked to police violence, raising public anger.
Why China Insisted on Attendance
Beijing’s Victory Day parade serves not only as a commemoration but also as a platform for President Xi Jinping to project China as a stabilizing force in global geopolitics. More than 20 world leaders, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, are attending. Military displays will feature hypersonic missiles, advanced drones, and other cutting-edge weaponry.
Prabowo’s presence, alongside leaders from Asia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia, signals Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with China, one of its largest trading partners and investors.
From Postponement to Departure
Originally scheduled to depart on August 31, Prabowo delayed his trip to monitor domestic unrest, including riots, arson, and reports of civilian casualties caused by security forces. He convened an emergency cabinet meeting, instructing the police and military to take firm action against looting and vandalism.
“State authorities must be present to protect citizens and public facilities,” Prabowo declared after the meeting, signaling a hardline stance amid mounting criticism of police brutality.
A Short but Symbolic Visit
Officials confirmed that Prabowo’s stay in China would be brief, with plans to return by Wednesday night or Thursday morning. “He will not be there long, but this visit is crucial for maintaining Indonesia-China relations,” said Prasetyo Hadi.
Observers note that Prabowo’s choice to prioritize foreign diplomacy during domestic turmoil underscores the delicate balance between safeguarding Indonesia’s international standing and addressing urgent crises at home.
The Stakes for Indonesia
Prabowo’s China visit highlights Indonesia’s geopolitical importance in Asia-Pacific diplomacy but also raises questions about government priorities. With protests still claiming lives and opposition to police violence growing, critics argue that domestic reforms should take precedence over foreign engagements.
Prabowo’s trip to China reflects the dual pressures facing Indonesia’s leadership: the need to strengthen ties with Beijing while managing political unrest at home. For Indonesians, it underscores concerns about accountability and governance; for Singaporeans and regional neighbors, it reveals the interconnected nature of Southeast Asia’s stability and diplomacy.
Sources: Tirto.id (2025) , Kompas.com (2025)
Keywords: Prabowo China Visit, Indonesia Protests, Xi Jinping Invitation, Victory Day Parade, Indonesia China Relations, Domestic Unrest
