Prabowo Asserts Indonesia Remains Stable Despite Rupiah's Decline: Rural Communities Don't Use Dollars

President Prabowo Subianto has addressed concerns regarding the Rupiah’s weakening exchange rate against the US dollar, asserting that Indonesia’s economic situation remains stable.

Prabowo expressed his surprise at the recurring predictions of Indonesia’s economic downfall.

“There are always those who predict Indonesia will collapse, will descend into chaos, citing the Rupiah’s performance against the dollar,” Prabowo stated during the inauguration of the Ibu Marsinah Museum and a community shelter in Nganjuk, on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

The President pointed out that people in rural areas do not use dollars, implying that the exchange rate has limited impact on their daily lives. He assured that Indonesia is in a good condition, as food and energy supplies remain secure, while many other countries are facing difficulties.

Prabowo reiterated that Indonesia follows a free and active foreign policy, and does not seek to have enemies with any country.

“Indonesian culture values respect, and we do not want to have enemies. That’s why, since becoming President, I have championed a free and active, non-aligned foreign policy. Indonesia wants to be a good neighbour,” he added.

It is worth noting that the Rupiah’s exchange rate against the US dollar is expected to remain volatile, but closed lower in today’s trading. According to data from the Jakarta Interbank Spot Dollar Rate (Jisdor) of Bank Indonesia, the Rupiah’s exchange rate against the US dollar was at Rp 17,496 on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. This position strengthened by 18 points from the previous day’s rate of Rp 17,514 on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Meanwhile, in spot market trading on Friday, May 15, 2026, until 09:00 WIB, the Rupiah was traded at Rp 17,604 per US dollar. This position weakened by 75 points, or 0.43 percent, from the previous position of Rp 17,529 per US dollar.