Prabowo Subianto book launch sparks debate over religious branding

The launch of a book titled ‘Islam ala Prabowo: Cara Prabowo Subianto Mengamalkan Ajaran Islam’ in early September 2026 has sparked intense social media debate. Published by leaders from the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) and the National Board of Zakat (Baznas), the nearly 400-page volume examines President Prabowo Subianto’s Islamic practices across his personal life, military career, and presidency.

The book features contributions from religious figures, academics, diplomats, and politicians regarding how Islamic values are reflected in Prabowo’s leadership and policies. However, critics argue the publication serves as a tool for political branding that co-opts religious authority for personal image-building. Some observers suggest that because it is published by major religious institutions, it risks being perceived as a religious doctrine rather than a subjective collection of essays.