Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto joined global tributes to Pope Francis, calling the late pontiff “a global role model who wholeheartedly championed peace, humanity, and fraternity.”
The pontiff passed away on April 21, 2025, Vatican time, at the age of 88.
In a pre-recorded message released Monday night, President Prabowo praised the Pope’s unwavering commitment to interfaith harmony and his compassion for the poor.
“Pope Francis was remembered as a humble figure, an advocate for the poor, and a leader who promoted interfaith and intercultural harmony. The values he upheld will always serve as an example for all,” he said.
Recalling the Pope’s September 2024 apostolic visit to Jakarta, the president noted, “The Pontiff’s visit left a lasting impression not only on Catholics but on all Indonesians.”
He ended with a heartfelt farewell: “Farewell, Holy Father. Your message of humanity and peace will forever remain in our hearts.”
Pontiff of profound simplicity
Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo of Jakarta offered personal recollections of Pope Francis during an emotional press conference at Jakarta Cathedral.
He highlighted the late pontiff’s distinctive simplicity and humility, particularly during the Synod of Bishops, where “instead of us arriving first, the pope would come early, stand at the entrance, and greet each of us one by one.”
Unlike his predecessors, Pope Francis would mingle freely with bishops during breaks, choosing community over seclusion. “He would speak freely, crack jokes, talk about all sorts of things. He never acted like a ruler, but as a fellow pilgrim,” said Suharyo.
The cardinal also noted the Pope’s personal gestures of solidarity—celebrating his birthday with the homeless, wearing ordinary shoes instead of traditional red, and forgoing a private room at Vatican events.
“From choices that significantly shaped the life of the Church to the most personal of preferences… they always showed a solidarity with our less fortunate brothers and sisters,” he added.
Catholic bishops honor Francis
Bishop Antonius Subianto Bunjamin OSC, President of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference, underscored the values left behind by the Pope: “The values of the Gospel, universal love, fraternity, care for the environment, especially compassion for the poor and the marginalized. These are entrusted to us, to be continued.”
He recounted the Pope’s gestures of kindness during his visit to Indonesia—distributing rosaries, medals, and candies to the faithful. “He would always stop if he saw elderly people, the sick, pregnant women, or small children,” said the bishop.
Pope Francis, according to Bunjamin, insisted on minimal security and chose to ride in an unarmored white Innova Zenix during his Indonesian visit—a reflection of his humility and closeness to the people.
Interfaith leaders join in tribute
Indonesia’s largest Islamic organization, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), expressed deep sorrow over the Pope’s passing. “The Pope was a role model for Catholics and also for followers of other religions, because of his loving attitude,” said PBNU’s Religious Affairs Division chief Kiai Hajj Ahmad Fahrur Rozi.
PBNU President Kiai Hajj Yahya Staquf hailed the Pope’s legacy of compassion and co-authorship of the Document on Human Fraternity with Sheikh Ahmad al-Tayyeb. “His outreach of compassion to all people, without distinction of background, is a perfect example for us all,” said Yahya.
He affirmed NU’s commitment to continue Pope Francis’ mission: “Nahdlatul Ulama will accompany the Catholic Church and all of humanity in continuing the spirit and legacy… in nurturing and defending human dignity.”
Minister of Religious Affairs Prof. Nasaruddin Umar, who hosted the Pope at Istiqlal Mosque in 2024, recalled their personal friendship. “His contributions and friendship will never be forgotten,” he said. He offered prayers for the Pope, noting their joint declaration in Jakarta had global resonance.
Muhammadiyah’s tribute to humble peacemaker
Haedar Nashir, Chairman of Muhammadiyah, remembered Pope Francis as “a humanist figure, a simple man, and a peacemaker.” He recalled their meeting in 2024 after receiving the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. “He welcomed us with a spirit of brotherhood, kindness, and even warm humour,” said Haedar.
Calling the Pope “an inclusive figure who promoted humanitarian spirit and peace for all,” Haedar emphasized the significance of his legacy. “We have lost a key figure and a leading Catholic leader whose life was devoted to a religious, compassionate, and peaceful humanity.”
“May the inspiration and legacy of Pope Francis for humanity and world peace become one of the driving forces for building a truly peaceful and authentic global order,” he concluded.
As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, Indonesia stands united in grief and gratitude, reflecting on the life of a pontiff who built bridges across faiths and championed the dignity of every person.
