From Cilacap, President Prabowo Affirms that Indonesia's Natural Resources Must Benefit the People

President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Indonesia’s natural resources (SDA) are managed and utilised to the greatest extent possible for the benefit of the people. In his speech at the groundbreaking ceremony for the national downstreaming project phase II at Refinery Unit IV in Cilacap, Central Java, on Wednesday (29/4/2026), Prabowo stated that the old practices, where the results of national wealth were not fully enjoyed domestically, must not continue. “Our economic resources and natural resources have been controlled for too long by parties whose nationalism I question. We grant mining concessions, plantation concessions, even credit from state banks. Yet, when successful, the proceeds of their efforts are not placed in Indonesia,” he said in a press release received by Kompas.com on Thursday (30/4/2026). Prabowo also appreciated all parties involved in developing the downstreaming project. He emphasised the important role of industry players, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), and professionals as the vanguard of national economic transformation. “This project did not fall from the sky. It is the fruit of thoughts that have been pioneered for decades by Indonesian leaders, technocrats, and scientists until it finally materialised,” Prabowo added. Prabowo stressed that intelligence and capability must be utilised to build the people’s welfare, not for interests that harm the country. “Now is the time for technocrats, scientists, engineers, and professors to become defenders of the people and the nation. Do not use your cleverness to deceive the people, cover up corruption, or enrich other nations,” he asserted. In addition, Prabowo affirmed that the government will continue to promote various strategic programmes as part of efforts to strengthen equitable distribution of welfare. Through downstreaming and strengthening the governance of natural resources, the government targets a fairer and more even distribution of welfare.