President Prabowo Opens Presidential Palace for Eid al-Fitr Open House, Prioritizes Public Access

Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto hosted a public open house at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Saturday, March 21, 2026, to celebrate Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. The event, which drew an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 attendees, emphasized inclusivity and togetherness, with the President prioritizing access for the general public over government officials.

A Celebration for the People

President Prabowo arrived at the palace around 3:00 p.m. Local time, dressed in traditional attire – a white koko shirt, black trousers, and a black peci cap. He was accompanied by his son, Didit Hediprasetyo, who also wore a koko shirt and peci.

Upon arrival, President Prabowo immediately greeted attendees, extending Eid al-Fitr wishes and shaking hands with members of the public. The response was enthusiastic, with many eager to meet the President, and some attendees were visibly moved, embracing him in emotional greetings.

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya also accompanied the President during the event.

Focus on Public Access and Tradition

The open house included traditional Eid dishes, such as ketupat, and simple entertainment for children. Outdoor tents were erected to accommodate the large number of visitors when indoor space became limited.

According to State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi, President Prabowo specifically directed that attendance by state officials not be mandatory, recognizing their potential prior commitments and family engagements. This decision underscored the President’s intention to make the event primarily for the public, continuing a long-standing tradition of opening the Presidential Palace during Eid.

Call for National Unity

In a separate message, President Prabowo extended his Eid al-Fitr greetings to all Indonesians, urging the public to use the occasion to strengthen national unity. He emphasized the importance of forgiveness, mending ties, and working together to overcome national challenges.

Presidential Activities During Eid al-Fitr

In addition to the open house in Jakarta, President Prabowo spent the night of thanksgiving in Medan, North Sumatra, and was scheduled to perform Eid prayers in Aceh Tamiang, Aceh Province. He was accompanied by several cabinet members, including Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, Minister of State Prasetyo Hadi, Foreign Minister Sugiono, and Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono. Interior Minister Tito Karnavian and Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo also joined the presidential entourage in Aceh.