Prabowo Praised as Indonesian Saves Elderly Korean Citizen | Investment & Presidential Visits News
- Jakarta, Indonesia – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto publicly lauded Sugianto, an Indonesian migrant worker, for his heroic actions in rescuing seven elderly residents from a wildfire in South...
- Sugianto, a fisherman from Indramayu, West Java, was invited as a guest of honor by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.
- The rescue occurred during a massive wildfire in Yeongdeok, South Korea, in March 2025.
Jakarta, Indonesia – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto publicly lauded Sugianto, an Indonesian migrant worker, for his heroic actions in rescuing seven elderly residents from a wildfire in South Korea in March 2025. The recognition took place during a state luncheon at South Korea’s presidential palace, Cheong Wa Dae (the Blue House), on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, according to a statement from Indonesia’s Government Communications Office.
Sugianto, a fisherman from Indramayu, West Java, was invited as a guest of honor by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. He was treated with the same respect as other distinguished guests, attending the luncheon in formal attire and seated between Presidents Prabowo and Lee. During a brief conversation, President Prabowo expressed his gratitude and admiration, stating, “Take care of yourself, okay? They really like you.”
The rescue occurred during a massive wildfire in Yeongdeok, South Korea, in March 2025. Sugianto awoke the elderly residents as the fire spread through forests and nearby areas, carrying them to safety one by one. His bravery garnered widespread praise in both South Korea and Indonesia, with numerous media outlets highlighting his story.
Sugianto has already received multiple honors for his courageous act. This latest recognition from President Prabowo underscores the importance Indonesia places on the safety and well-being of its citizens working abroad. The incident also highlights the close relationship between Indonesia and South Korea.
President Prabowo’s visit to South Korea is part of a broader series of international trips he has undertaken since assuming office on October 20, 2024. As of March 2026, he has made 23 foreign trips to 28 countries, demonstrating Indonesia’s increasing engagement on the global stage.
The Indonesian migrant worker received a presidential honor for his bravery, as reported by The Jakarta Post on January 6, 2026.
Recent reports also indicate that President Prabowo gifted South Korean President Lee Jae Myung with a special baju (traditional Indonesian shirt) for his son, Bobby, during the state visit, as noted by SINDOnews Nasional.