Prabowo invokes Indonesian proverb as message of unity at BRICS

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto invoked an Indonesian proverb as a vital message on the importance of unity in facing global challenges at the 2026 BRICS Summit held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India, on Saturday.

According to a statement from the President’s Secretariat in Jakarta, President Prabowo brought the spirit of unity of the Global South nations to a closed session themed “Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism.”

“There is an old proverb in Indonesia, ‘United we stand, divided we fall’,” President Prabowo stated before the BRICS leaders.

For President Prabowo, the proverb is more than just an expression of unity. The message reflects the spirit that, for decades, has united nations across Asia and Africa in their struggle to stand as equals, determine their own futures, and fight for shared interests.

“This simple wisdom reflects the spirit that united the Global South nations, from Asia and Africa, several decades ago in Bandung,” the President continued.

“We in the Global South now feel that our voices are being heard. Nations that have recently gained independence, which have fought against imperialism and colonialism, are now united as equal nations,” he said.

President Prabowo emphasised that unity provides greater strength for Global South nations to voice their interests. By standing together, Prabowo noted, their voices can reach further while simultaneously strengthening the ability to protect and advocate for the interests of each respective nation.

“We understand that by uniting, our voices will be heard more clearly. Our interests can be better protected and advanced. This lesson remains very important,” the President asserted.

President Prabowo’s message at the BRICS Summit underscores that the Bandung spirit is not merely a historical legacy, but a living force to address contemporary challenges. Through unity, Global South nations can stand increasingly firm, maintain independence, and collectively strive for a more just, equal, and inclusive world order.