President Prabowo Awards Honorary Distinction to Bill Gates in New York
New York, The Gulf Observer: President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto conferred an honorary distinction on Microsoft founder and global philanthropist Bill Gates, in recognition of his longstanding contributions to Indonesia.
“After careful consideration, I have decided to present this honorary award to Bill Gates,” President Prabowo stated following their meeting at a hotel in New York on Tuesday.
He commended Gates for his extensive support to Indonesia, particularly in advancing research, developing high-quality seeds, pharmaceuticals, and vaccines. According to the president, Gates’ direct assistance to Indonesia amounts to approximately Rp7–8 trillion (around US$500 million), with the broader impact of his initiatives estimated at US$4.5 billion.
President Prabowo further noted that Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund, Danantara, has been in active dialogue with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation regarding collaborative humanitarian projects. These initiatives are focused on supporting vulnerable communities, eradicating poverty and hunger, and enhancing access to education. “Education is the key to our future,” the president stressed.
The meeting took place shortly after President Prabowo delivered his address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly Debate Session at UN Headquarters. Their discussion lasted about 15 minutes, after which the president resumed a series of closed-door meetings at the UN.
In May this year, Bill Gates visited Indonesia to discuss sustainable development initiatives, with emphasis on global health, nutrition, financial inclusion, and digital public infrastructure. On that occasion, President Prabowo expressed his intention to bestow Indonesia’s highest honorary distinction upon Gates, acknowledging his service not only to the Indonesian people but also to the international community.
Underscoring the award, President Prabowo affirmed that Gates is “truly deserving” of the honor, noting that through his foundation he has consistently supported vaccine development and empowerment programs in Indonesia.
