TOKYO - The arrival of President Prabowo Subianto in Tokyo, Sunday night, March 29, 2026, was also greeted by Indonesian students and cadets who are studying at the National Defense Academy (NDA) in Japan. For them, a direct meeting with the head of state is not only a rare moment, but also a space to convey hopes about education and the future of dedication.
At the hotel where the President stayed, the cadets stood neatly in a warm welcoming atmosphere. Lieutenant Two Engineering Farel Octandrian from AAU 2025, who is studying S1 at NDA through an overseas scholarship program, admitted that he was proud to be able to meet the President directly.
"We are very proud and happy to meet the President. This is a rare thing for us and an honor for us," said Farel.
On that occasion, Farel also expressed his appreciation to President Prabowo for the continuation of the NDA scholarship program. He hopes that the program will remain open for the next generation. "To the President, we want to thank you, for your efforts, we can continue this NDA scholarship. In the future, hopefully this program can continue to our younger siblings. Thank you, sir," he said.
A similar hope was conveyed by Lieutenant Laut (P) Dhani Fathurrachman, who studied earth and ocean sciences. According to Dhani, Prabowo had a direct dialogue with the cadets and gave them a message to continue to study, stay motivated, and maintain Indonesia's good name.
"Of course, the President has asked us to continue to study, be enthusiastic, and bring a good name to Indonesia," said Dhani.
Lieutenant Two Artillery Irsyad Farhan Mahendra, who represented cadets from the Army, also said the President's message was an encouragement. He admitted that education in Japan presents its own challenges. However, he hopes that the knowledge gained at NDA can be brought home and applied in Indonesia.
"My hope is that whatever I learn here, I can apply in Indonesia to advance the nation and state," said Irsyad.
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