Maung Garuda Prabowo Steals the Spotlight at ASEAN Summit

There was something different about President Prabowo Subianto’s latest overseas visit. This time, the President chose to use the Maung MV3 Garuda Limousine to attend the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Philippines.

This was the first time the Maung Garuda car was displayed abroad. The vehicle, produced by PT Pindad, looked impressive from the moment it picked up Prabowo at the General Aviation Terminal of Mactan-Cebu International Airport until it arrived at the hotel where the event was held.

The sight immediately attracted the attention of delegates and local Filipino residents. The striking design of the Maung Garuda stood out compared to the other official delegation vehicles, which were mostly black sedans.

“I see this as an amazing vehicle,” said Yusail, a Cebu resident, as quoted in a press release from the Media and Information Bureau of the Presidential Secretariat in Jakarta on Saturday.

Another local resident, Alex, who took a selfie with the vehicle in the background, also shared his impression of the presidential car. According to Alex, the Maung has its own unique character that is rarely found in his country.

“This vehicle is very classic and different from any other vehicles I have ever seen in the Philippines,” Alex said.

In addition to its bold and modern visual appearance, the vehicle’s functionality also received appreciation from on-site personnel. Kathrine, a security officer for the 48th ASEAN Summit, assessed that the vehicle has high security standards suitable for a head of state.

According to Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, the use of the Maung at the 48th ASEAN Summit was not merely a means of transportation, but also served as a symbol of national independence, self-confidence, and the advancement of Indonesia’s industrial technology.

“The use of the Maung in this international forum is not just a mode of transportation, but a symbol of independence, national self-confidence, and the progress of Indonesia’s national industry. The Maung has become a symbol of diplomacy,” Teddy said in his official statement.

Igniting National Spirit

Separately, Head of the Government Communications Body (Bakom) RI Muhammad Qodari stated that President Prabowo Subianto will continue to use the Maung vehicle for other state agendas in the future.

However, its use will still depend on the situation and regulations in each country.

“Of course, we must consider the situation and conditions, for example the distance, as well as the regulations in each country. Fortunately, the Philippines is relatively close to Indonesia and is also an ASEAN country. Whenever possible, we use these opportunities to boost the national spirit and showcase the quality of the Indonesian nation,” Qodari said.

According to Qodari, the use of domestically produced vehicles demonstrates President Prabowo’s commitment to encouraging the development of a strong and competitive Indonesian automotive industry.