Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto said Indonesia is not obligated to pay a proposed $1 billion contribution to the Board of Peace for Gaza, clarifying that the funds would be allocated for Gaza reconstruction and are entirely voluntary.

Prabowo delivered the clarification during a meeting with former foreign ministers at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday, according to Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.

The clarification comes amid domestic debate over Indonesia’s participation in the Trump-initiated board, with critics questioning both the financial implications and the initiative’s alignment with Palestinian interests.

“Regarding the Board of Peace, membership is not permanent. Indonesia can withdraw at any time,” Teddy said, quoting the president in an Instagram post. “The $1 billion refers to a reconstruction fund for Gaza and is not mandatory.”

Teddy added that Indonesia has not made any payment to the board to date, noting that participating countries are free to contribute or opt out.

“If a country pays, it becomes a permanent member. If it does not, membership lasts for three years,” he said.

According to Teddy, Indonesia’s decision to join the initiative reflects a desire to take a direct role in safeguarding ceasefire efforts in Palestine, rather than limiting its engagement to conferences or diplomatic forums.

He said Prabowo also used the meeting to provide further explanations, hear feedback, and respond to questions from the former diplomats.

Those in attendance included former foreign ministers Marty Natalegawa, Retno Marsudi, Hassan Wirajuda, and Alwi Shihab.