Prabowo Subianto Takes Office as Indonesia's New President with Over 40 Ministers in Largest Cabinet Since 1998

Oct 20, 2024, 11:04 AM

Indonesia's new president, Prabowo Subianto, has taken office, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape. Subianto, who won the election with policies such as free meals for school children, has named over 40 ministers, creating the largest cabinet since the fall of Suharto in 1998. Many strategic posts are held by ministers from the previous administration, including finance chief Sri Mulyani Indrawati. Subianto's foreign policy strategy, anticipated by his predecessor Joko Widodo, aims to navigate great-power tensions between the US and China, while also expanding economic cooperation with Eastern nations. Key issues to watch include his ministerial appointments, engagement with the world, and whether Indonesia will have an opposition. To boost Indonesia's economic growth, Subianto will need to implement methodical reforms.