Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, the “Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia,” during his official visit to Jakarta on July 7, 2026. The prestigious award was presented by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in recognition of Modi’s contribution to strengthening the strategic partnership and long-standing friendship between India and Indonesia. The honour marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations and highlights the growing cooperation between the two Indo-Pacific nations.
What is the Bintang Adipurna?
The Bintang Adipurna is the highest class of the Star of the Republic of Indonesia (Bintang Republik Indonesia), the country’s highest national honour. Established in 1959, the award is bestowed upon individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Indonesia or significantly strengthened the country’s international relations. It is one of Indonesia’s most prestigious state decorations and has previously been awarded to distinguished world leaders and eminent personalities.
Why Was PM Modi Honoured?
According to Indonesian officials, Prime Minister Modi received the honour for his efforts in expanding India–Indonesia relations across multiple sectors, including:
Strategic and maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
Defence and security partnerships.
Trade and investment.
Digital technology and financial connectivity.
Cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
Regional cooperation through ASEAN, the G20, BRICS, and other international forums.
The award also recognizes India’s growing engagement with Southeast Asia under its Act East Policy and its commitment to maintaining a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
Award Ceremony in Jakarta
President Prabowo Subianto presented the honour during an official state ceremony in Jakarta. The event formed part of Prime Minister Modi’s two-day state visit to Indonesia, where he held bilateral talks with the Indonesian President, addressed the Indonesian Parliament, and interacted with the Indian diaspora.
During the ceremony, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in defence, maritime security, digital infrastructure, clean energy, healthcare, and economic development.
Key Outcomes of the Visit
Apart from receiving the prestigious award, Prime Minister Modi’s visit resulted in several important developments:
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
India and Indonesia agreed to deepen cooperation in maritime security, defence manufacturing, cybersecurity, and counter-terrorism while promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Expanding Economic Cooperation
The two countries discussed increasing bilateral trade, encouraging investments, improving supply chain resilience, and strengthening collaboration in digital payments and financial technology.
Enhancing Cultural Ties
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the centuries-old civilizational links between India and Indonesia, emphasizing shared cultural traditions, historical connections, and democratic values. He also praised the role of former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik in supporting Indonesia’s struggle for independence, describing his contribution as an enduring symbol of friendship between the two nations.
Significance of the Honour
The conferring of the Bintang Adipurna reflects Indonesia’s appreciation of Prime Minister Modi’s role in advancing bilateral relations. The honour also demonstrates the increasing strategic importance of India and Indonesia as major maritime democracies working together on regional security, economic growth, and global governance.
Diplomatic experts view the award as a symbol of mutual trust and recognition of the expanding partnership between the two countries in an increasingly significant Indo-Pacific region.
India’s Growing Global Recognition
Over the past several years, Prime Minister Modi has received numerous international honours from different countries, reflecting India’s expanding diplomatic engagement and global partnerships. The Indonesian civilian honour adds another milestone to India’s efforts to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and reinforces the importance of India–Indonesia cooperation in addressing regional and global challenges.
