Thursday | May 29, 2025
Magelang, Central Java – On a serene Thursday afternoon, President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, extended a warm and symbolic welcome to French President Emmanuel Macron at the majestic Borobudur Temple—one of the world’s largest and most revered Buddhist monuments, and a crown jewel of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. The visit marked a significant moment in Indonesia-France relations, blending diplomacy with culture and personal camaraderie.
The French president was accompanied by First Lady Brigitte Macron, while President Prabowo was joined by his son, Didit Hediprasetyo, a noted fashion designer and cultural advocate. Together, the two heads of state and their companions shared an informal yet meaningful tour of the ancient temple complex, nestled amid the lush hills of Central Java.
Earlier in the day, the two presidents had paid a visit to the Indonesian Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang, where Prabowo himself once trained as a cadet. The stop at Akmil, followed by an official luncheon hosted in honor of President Macron, set the tone for a visit that seamlessly wove together military tradition, statecraft, and cultural diplomacy.
Following the luncheon, the French and Indonesian delegations proceeded to Borobudur, located just a short drive away. Upon arrival at the sprawling temple grounds, the leaders emerged from a sleek black sedan. Dressed in coordinated white shirts and dark sunglasses—symbols of understated formality—the two leaders paused briefly for a photo opportunity against the temple’s backdrop, their demeanor reflecting mutual respect and ease.
As they began their tour, President Prabowo demonstrated a personal touch by personally driving a golf buggy to guide his guests through the expansive temple grounds. President Macron took the front passenger seat, and the pair appeared to share a friendly conversation, punctuated by occasional smiles and laughter. Their dialogue, while informal, no doubt carried undertones of the shared vision that has come to define France and Indonesia’s increasingly dynamic partnership.
Moments later, First Lady Brigitte Macron and Didit Hediprasetyo joined them, taking their seats at the rear of the vehicle. The group continued toward a more private area of the temple complex, away from cameras and media crews—a moment likely intended for personal reflection and deeper appreciation of the sacred site.
In anticipation of this high-profile visit, the Indonesian government had taken several steps to ensure the comfort and accessibility of the site. Notably, a stair lift was installed at Borobudur at the request of the French delegation, enabling easier access to the temple’s upper levels. This effort not only reflected Indonesia’s hospitality but also aligned with broader initiatives to make Borobudur more inclusive and accessible for all visitors, regardless of physical ability.
At the heart of the visit was a pivotal diplomatic milestone: the planned signing of a bilateral agreement focusing on friendship and cultural cooperation between Indonesia and France. The ceremony was scheduled to take place at the summit of the temple—an evocative location chosen for its spiritual resonance and architectural grandeur. From this elevated vantage point, the two presidents were also expected to deliver a joint statement outlining their countries’ mutual dedication to cultural preservation, the promotion of intercultural dialogue, and deeper collaborative efforts in heritage conservation.
President Macron’s presence at Borobudur was especially significant, as it was a visit he had personally requested as part of his official Southeast Asian tour. His time in Indonesia, from May 27 to 29, 2025, emphasized France’s growing diplomatic, economic, and cultural engagement with the Asia-Pacific region. It also showcased Macron’s recognition of Southeast Asia’s rich historical and cultural traditions, particularly Indonesia’s global role as a guardian of heritage.
The visit concluded not only with strengthened bilateral ties but also with a reaffirmation of both nations’ commitment to fostering people-to-people connections through shared cultural values, mutual respect, and global cooperation.