Prabowo: Unity always visible when the Indonesian national team plays

President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto admitted he always sees unity every time the Indonesian national team plays, because everyone, regardless of ethnicity or religion, unites with a sense of pride. This was conveyed by Prabowo at the opening of the PSSI 2026 Ordinary Congress in Jakarta on Monday, through a speech read out by PSSI General Chair Erick Thohir. “There is one thing that always makes me proud. Every time the Indonesian national team competes, we see the Red and White able to unite all Indonesian people,” said Prabowo. “There are no more differences in ethnicity, religion, or background; what exists is just one identity: Indonesia.” He added that from the national team, he also sees that football is not just a sport, but a force that unites the nation and strengthens the love for the homeland. “Therefore, building Indonesian football is not just about chasing victories on the pitch. It is an endeavour to safeguard the nation’s honour, elevate Indonesia’s standing in the world, and bequeath pride to future generations,” Prabowo said. “These values are the true foundation for a nation’s progress. Building football is, in essence, building the nation’s character. It builds a young generation that is resilient, has integrity, respects rules, and never gives up in the face of challenges.” The President noted that this national identity will be on display again tonight at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor Regency, West Java, when the Garuda squad hosts Vietnam in the continuation of the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 Group A. The match will be played to a full house after PSSI announced that tickets had sold out. Indonesia currently sits second in the Group A standings with six points from two matches. A victory over Vietnam tonight would secure a semi-final spot for the Garuda squad, even with one final group match remaining against Singapore on Friday.