Can genomic sequencing reveal your ancestry? Experts explain Indonesian president's 'Indian DNA' remark

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's light-hearted remark that a genomic sequencing test revealed he has "Indian DNA" has ignited widespread interest in ancestry testing and the science behind genetic sequencing.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jakarta, Prabowo said he underwent a genomic sequencing or DNA test before his state visit to India and discovered that he had Indian ancestry. Jokingly linking the result to his fondness for Indian music, he said it might explain why he instinctively starts dancing whenever he hears Indian songs.

While the remark generated excitement, medical experts say ancestry testing offers estimates of genetic similarities rather than definitive conclusions about a person's ethnicity, nationality or identity.

According to Dr. Shrinidhi Nathany, Consultant, Molecular Hematology & Oncology at FMRI (Gurugram), ancestry testing identifies genetic similarities with reference populations and often reflects centuries of migration, trade and cultural exchange.

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"The long-standing historical connections between the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia are well supported by archaeological, historical and genomic evidence," she said.

Dr. Nathany added that ancestry results should be interpreted responsibly because they provide probabilistic insights rather than absolute measures of identity.

"Ultimately, genomics reminds us that despite geographical borders, humanity has always been deeply interconnected."

Genomic sequencing goes far beyond ancestry

Experts emphasise that although ancestry testing attracts public attention, genomic sequencing today plays a far more significant role in healthcare.

Deepak Narang, Chief Operating Officer at Agilus Diagnostics, said public discussions around shared genetic heritage often overshadow the clinical value of genomic testing.

"In clinical practice, genomic testing helps identify inherited genetic variations that can influence disease risk, guide diagnosis, enable personalised treatment decisions and, in many cases, support early intervention before symptoms appear," he explained.

Narang said advances in molecular diagnostics are making precision medicine increasingly accessible in India.

He noted that Agilus Diagnostics has expanded its capabilities through investments in advanced sequencing technologies, specialised molecular diagnostic infrastructure and a broader portfolio of genetic tests.

These include Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) and rapid molecular assays that help doctors make biomarker-driven treatment decisions, particularly in cancer care.

"Our goal is to make advanced genomic diagnostics more accessible across India, helping integrate precision medicine into routine clinical practice and improving patient outcomes," he said.

Precision oncology among the biggest beneficiaries

The impact of genomic testing is perhaps most evident in oncology, where understanding a tumour's genetic makeup is transforming cancer diagnosis and treatment.

According to Dr. Kunal Sharma, Vice President & Head – Integrated Onco-Pathology and Lead – Digital Pathology & AI Initiatives at Agilus Diagnostics, every cancer carries a unique molecular signature.

"Understanding these genetic alterations allows us to move beyond conventional diagnosis towards more precise and personalised treatment strategies," he said.

Genomic profiling can identify actionable mutations, predict a patient's response to targeted therapies and immunotherapies, and help clinicians make faster, evidence-based treatment decisions.

Dr. Sharma said integrating genomics into routine cancer care is becoming an essential component of precision oncology rather than an optional tool.

"The future of cancer diagnostics lies in combining pathology, molecular genomics and digital technologies to provide clinicians with comprehensive, actionable insights," he said.

He added that such an integrated approach can improve diagnostic accuracy, optimise treatment selection with fewer side effects and ultimately deliver better outcomes for patients.

While Prabowo's "Indian DNA" remark has sparked public curiosity about ancestry testing, experts agree that the greatest promise of genomic sequencing lies in advancing preventive healthcare, personalised medicine and next-generation cancer treatment.