While world leaders debate how to save the economy and end all wars at once, in the corridors of Merdeka Palace in Jakarta the media’s attention is focused on another important “official”. Bobby Kertanegara, the favourite of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, has cemented his status as the most influential cat in Southeast Asia.
From street stray to ‘Master of the Palace’
Bobby’s story is a classic rags-to-riches tale. In 2017, Prabowo Subianto rescued him from the street, and the cat has been his loyal companion ever since. After Prabowo’s inauguration in October 2024, Bobby officially moved into the presidential residence. A separate suite was set aside for the ‘first cat’, and the president jokingly calls him the true master of the palace — ‘Penguasa Istana’.
Photo: SCMP
His popularity in the country is phenomenal: in 2024, Bobby topped the Google Year in Search Indonesia ranking in the “Who is this?” category, beating many celebrities and politicians.
Security and dedicated transport
The level of security around Bobby has sparked lively debate in Indonesian society. At official events and public shows (such as PetFest Indonesia), the cat is accompanied by his own entourage.
— Bodyguards: Several security officers make sure visitors don’t disturb the animal and keep their distance.
— Dedicated transport: Bobby rarely gets around “on foot”. A personalised, custom-branded stroller has been made for him, with his initials “BK” and an exclusive logo.
Deputy Minister/State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro, responding to questions about whether the spending is justified, explained that Bobby’s security is officially considered part of the system for protecting the president’s property, which by law must be safeguarded.
‘Soft paws’ diplomacy
Bobby has become a key tool of Indonesia’s soft power. He regularly “receives” ambassadors and world leaders. For example, during a visit the Australian Prime Minister gave him a personalised collar-scarf, and meetings with the Chinese and French ambassadors have already become part of the cat’s regular working schedule.
One of the standout moments was the recent visit by Microsoft founder Bill Gates. During a trip focused on global health issues, Gates didn’t miss the chance to meet the palace’s four-legged resident.
The billionaire personally greeted Bobby as he rested in his famous stroller and presented him with an unusual souvenir — a plush black-and-white orca. The video of the meeting went viral instantly, and Indonesian social media users joked that the creator of Windows is now providing tech support to Indonesia’s ‘first cat’.
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