Members of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia expressed joy and pride on Tuesday, 8 July after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jakarta, describing the interaction as a memorable occasion and praising his vision for India's development. The Prime Minister addressed the community during his official visit to Indonesia, underscoring the deep civilisational ties between the two nations.

Community Voices: 'A Moment of Great Pride'

Several members of the Indian community shared their reactions after the gathering. 'It felt wonderful to meet Prime Minister Modi. Today, he spoke to us about the progress taking place in India, and we learned a great deal about the country's development,' said one attendee.

A member originally from Rajasthan said, 'It is a matter of great pride that the Prime Minister of our country came to meet us. We are very happy after meeting him.' Another described the event as rare and inspiring: 'Such moments do not come often. It is inspiring to see how the Prime Minister is working for India's development and empowering the youth through various initiatives.'

Modi's Address: 'Reform, Perform and Transform'

Addressing the Indian community in Jakarta, PM Modi said that India's economy is playing a major role in driving global growth, fuelled by the mantra of 'Reform, Perform and Transform'. He credited this approach with accelerating the country's development and strengthening its position on the global stage.

The Prime Minister thanked the Indian community in Indonesia for serving as ambassadors of Indian culture, values, and traditions — and for helping strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

India–Indonesia Ties: 'Civilisational, Not Just Diplomatic'

Modi recalled Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's visit to India as Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations, citing the President's remark — 'You have India's DNA' — as one that 'won the hearts of millions of Indians.' 'DNA is built on mutual trust and shared history,' Modi said.

The Prime Minister described the relationship between India and Indonesia as going far beyond diplomacy. 'The relations between India and Indonesia are civilisational,' he said, stressing that the friendship between the two nations continues to grow stronger.

Modi also noted that Indonesia's highest civilian honour, conferred on him earlier that day, belongs to 1.4 billion Indians and all members of the Indian diaspora. 'Above all, this award is another symbol of the close friendship between India and Indonesia,' he said. He added that he was moved by the warmth of his reception, including being personally received at the airport by President Prabowo along with members of the Cabinet.

Business Angle: Women-Led Battery Plant in Focus

Abhishek Yadav, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Imoto Technologies, also welcomed the interaction. 'Today's event was very meaningful as both Prime Minister Modi and President Prabowo were present. It gave us an excellent opportunity to discuss our company and our work in developing indigenous battery manufacturing technology in Indonesia. Our plant is fully operated by women, and we hope the opportunities created through the energy transition will benefit all sections of society, especially women,' Yadav said.

The meeting reflects India's broader push to leverage its diaspora as a strategic bridge — not just culturally, but in emerging sectors like clean energy. With India and Indonesia deepening ties across defence, trade, and technology, the diaspora's role as economic interlocutors is increasingly in focus.