President Prabowo Subianto was awarded the Darjah Kerabat Johor Yang Amat Dihormati Pangkat Pertama (D.K I Johor) on January 27, 2025, in a royal ceremony held at Malaysia’s National Palace. The honor was conferred by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, in recognition of President Prabowo’s role in strengthening ties between Indonesia and Malaysia.
The Darjah Kerabat Johor is a distinguished royal decoration founded in 1886 by Sultan Abu Bakar. Reserved for royalty and select heads of state, the award is a testament to the spirit of unity and diplomacy, encapsulated by the motto “Muafakat Itu Berkat,” or “Concord is a Blessing.”
As part of the ceremonial regalia, President Prabowo received a gold collar bearing the name of Sultan Abu Bakar in Jawi script and a nine-pointed star, symbolizing values like leadership, solidarity, and tradition. These elements reflect the enduring cultural prestige of the Johor monarchy.
With this award, President Prabowo joins a respected circle of leaders, including Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and former Indonesian President Soeharto, who have contributed to lasting regional harmony. His inclusion highlights Indonesia’s vital role as a stabilizing force within ASEAN.
The honor also mirrors the evolving partnership between Indonesia and Malaysia, two neighboring nations bound by shared heritage and strategic interests. Through this symbolic gesture, the Johor Sultanate reinforces a future of deeper cooperation and trust.
