Prabowo Chides Those Who Stir Up Chaos, Strife, and Like to Riot

President Prabowo Subianto has chided people who cause a ruckus. He believes the Indonesian nation should focus on pursuing prosperity rather than bickering. Prabowo conveyed his views during a speech before thousands of rectors, deans, and lecturers at the Jakarta International Convention Center on Friday, 26 June 2026. In his address, he said the Indonesian nation should be able to find points of common ground. Indonesia, said Prabowo, is a democratic country. Therefore, differences are normal. However, Prabowo believes differences should not lead to chaos. “Do we want to be in turmoil? After every election there is uproar, the losers make a fuss? When will we advance for the welfare of our people?” he said. Prabowo stated that creating prosperity is the duty of the nation’s children, especially those given the mandate as leaders and those with intelligence. “All our intelligence must be dedicated to the poorest, the weakest,” he said. The former defence minister then took a swipe at people who think chaos has a positive side. “Please, if anyone has a different opinion, that is their right. I say we are different. Go ahead if anyone thinks that chaos, strife, rioting, anarchy, hatred, hostility, and name-calling are productive,” said Prabowo. Prabowo expressed bewilderment at people who consider chaos productive. “While other countries are moving towards prosperity, towards breakthroughs, towards wealth,” said the retired Army general. The forum titled “National Gathering” attended by Prabowo is part of the Indonesian Science, Technology, and Industry Convention organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology. The event carried the theme “Strategy for Indonesia’s Economic Independence and Welfare”. Several cabinet members also attended the event, including Vice President Gibran Rakabuming, Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto, and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.