Cabinet Secretary Teddy Criticises 'Inflation of Observers': 96 Million People Trust Prabowo
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya emphasised that the government is open to criticism and input from various parties, stressing the importance of delivery based on data and facts.
According to him, there is currently a phenomenon occurring, namely the “inflation of observers.” This means there is an increase in the number of parties expressing opinions in the public sphere, but without supporting expertise or accurate data.
Teddy added that some opinions circulating in society are not entirely based on facts and have the potential to mislead the public. Nevertheless, the Cabinet Secretary emphasised that public trust in the government remains high.
“There are military observers, foreign observers. And those observers’ data do not match the facts. Their data is incorrect,” said Cabinet Secretary Teddy to the media at the Presidential Palace Complex, Jakarta, last Friday (10/4).
“But what is the fact? The fact is that more than 96 million citizens trust Mr Prabowo more than they trust them. That is real evidence of public trust. Not some assumption,” he continued.
Furthermore, Teddy conveyed that differences in views are a normal part of democracy. According to him, the government does not close off space for criticism, as long as it is conveyed constructively and does not cause anxiety in society.
“So I think it’s fine for us to have different views, different opinions. Please give criticism, but don’t give statements that lead to anxiety, making people anxious about this country. Everything is stable, everything is under control,” he said.
Therefore, all parties are expected to maintain optimism and build positive hopes for the nation’s future.
Teddy Denies Indonesia Will Face Chaos
Previously, on that occasion, Teddy rejected opinions from several groups who assessed that Indonesia would face chaos in the near future. Teddy affirmed that the national condition remains under control.
“So a while ago there was an issue saying that in the near future Indonesia would face chaos, yes. First, I apologise, let me correct that, that is a mistaken narrative. There is no chaos. What there is, is everything under control,” said Cabinet Secretary Teddy.
Teddy stated that Indonesia is in a safe and controlled state, even amid Middle East global dynamics. This is reflected in how the government has not raised fuel prices (BBM).
“Many countries have raised fuel prices, facing fuel shortages, but President Prabowo has decided not to raise subsidised fuel prices at all. That is a fact. You can see for yourself in neighbouring countries and surrounding countries,” he said.
Teddy continued that the national economy remains positive. He mentioned that people’s purchasing power is still maintained and supported by data from economists.
“Then secondly, economic data from real economists shows we are heading towards optimism. People’s purchasing power is maintained,” added Teddy.
He also emphasised the stability seen during the last two Eid periods under President Prabowo’s administration. According to him, the availability of staple goods is maintained, prices are relatively stable, and the distribution of energy and Eid exodus flows ran smoothly.
“And in fact, as evidence, we experienced it together twice, everything was stable. Staple goods prices, essential needs available, prices stable, fuel available, and the Eid exodus smooth, yes. That is factual data available on the ground. Everything is measurable here. So the public should not worry,” he said.