Facing Workers, Prabowo: I Have Risked My Life Many Times for This Nation!
Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto affirmed that he has risked his life many times for the Indonesian nation. He made this statement during the International Labour Day or May Day 2026 commemoration at the National Monument (Monas) on Friday, 1 May 2026.
Prabowo began by expressing his thanks to the workers who have consistently supported his government, from farmers to fishermen.
“I express my gratitude for the invitation to be here today with all of you. This is an honour for me. I feel that the working class has always supported me time and again, and I became president because of the support from workers, farmers, fishermen, and all workers across Indonesia,” said Prabowo.
However, Prabowo expressed bewilderment at how many educated people steal the nation’s wealth. He resolved to defend the Indonesian people since his days serving in the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI).
“I’m astonished; the more educated they are, the more thieves there are. I can’t fathom it, I really can’t. I felt called from a young age when I joined the military to protect this country, to defend this country, to defend my people,” he said.
The head of state emphasised that he has risked his life many times to build a better Indonesia and to prosper its people. Yet, he admitted sadness over the many elites who steal public funds.
“But I was shocked when I retired; I saw that my people were still suffering. I have risked my life many times for this nation, but I see many elites stealing the people’s money. This is not what I fought for; this is not a country robbed by thieves. I cannot accept it,” he concluded.
The head of state also expressed unwillingness to see children and mothers in Indonesia going hungry, unable to provide milk.
Furthermore, Prabowo was unwilling to see his ministers, entrusted by the public, colluding with dishonest and greedy businessmen.
“I cannot accept it; government officials entrusted by the people instead collaborate with despicable businessmen, with greedy businessmen,” he said.