At the United Nations General Assembly, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto appealed for global peace and justice. He offered to send 20,000 troops to Gaza, supported the Two-State Solution, and concluded his message with the mantra “Om Shanti, Shanti Om”.
UNGA: At the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto delivered a speech that captured the world's attention. In his approximately 19-minute address, he emphasized the need for global peace, justice, and equal opportunities.
Subianto warned that ideologies driven by fear, racism, hatred, oppression, and apartheid could endanger the future of humanity. He stated unequivocally that if the world fails to take timely action, we could enter an era dominated by endless war and violence.
Towards the end of his speech, he chanted the Sanskrit mantra — “Om Shanti, Shanti Om” — a message that kindles hope for peace and harmony amidst global uncertainties.
Indonesia's Offer for a Peace Mission in Gaza
President Subianto expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Gaza and other conflict-ridden areas. He stated that Indonesia is prepared to take concrete steps towards peacebuilding.
Subianto announced that Indonesia is ready to deploy 20,000 or more troops under a United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission. He emphasized that Indonesia does not wish to be limited to mere speeches but seeks to play an active role in restoring peace on the ground.
He stated,
“Indonesia is already one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping forces. We will defend peace not just with words, but with concrete action.”
Strong Statement in Support of the Two-State Solution
President Subianto also took a clear stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. He stated that the world must take concrete steps to implement the Two-State Solution.
He asserted that both Palestine and Israel have the right to exist independently and securely. Arab, Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities can coexist in harmony, peace, and cooperation.
Subianto said,
“Violence cannot be the solution to any political conflict. Violence only begets more violence. We must move towards a permanent and just solution.”
Strong Message on Fear, Racism, and Oppression
In his speech, President Subianto identified racism and apartheid as the greatest threats to global peace. He stated that forces spreading fear and hatred worldwide are dividing societies.
According to him, if this trend continues, it will become difficult to create a just and secure world for future generations. He appealed to global leaders to take a firm stand against all forms of discrimination and oppression.
Emphasis on a Just World Order
Subianto stated that the world must collectively build a just and stable order where every country receives equal respect and opportunity. He also added that lasting peace cannot be achieved without eradicating economic and social inequality, poverty, and injustice.
He highlighted the need to strengthen the voice of developing countries on the global stage. He believes that the international community should not only discuss major issues but also take concrete action to resolve them.
Message on Indonesia's Global Role
Subianto stated that Indonesia has always been a proponent of peace and stability. As the largest country in Southeast Asia and the world's largest Muslim-majority nation, Indonesia has a responsibility to play its part for global peace.
“Om Shanti, Shanti Om” — A Message of Peace for the World
At the conclusion of his speech, President Subianto delivered a message of peace and harmony to the entire world by chanting the Sanskrit mantra “Om Shanti, Shanti Om.” This gesture was considered unique on the global stage, as a leader from a Muslim-majority country was using this deeply spiritual mantra from Indian culture.
