Prabowo: Economic Development Must Go Beyond Numbers – Poor Children Must Be Well-Nourished and Workers Prosper

President Prabowo Subianto emphasised that Indonesia’s economic development must not stop at mere statistical achievements. He stated that a Pancasila-based economy must deliver tangible welfare for the people, especially the most vulnerable and weakest groups.

The message was delivered by Prabowo during the Pancasila Foundation Day ceremony at the Pancasila Building, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Central Jakarta, on Monday, 1 June 2026.

In his speech, Prabowo explained the meaning of a Pancasila-based economy, which he said must be built on religious values, humanity, and national unity.

‘Brothers and sisters, what does an economy based on Pancasila mean? First, a religious economy, a humanistic economy, and an economy that strengthens national unity,’ Prabowo said.

He stressed that Indonesia’s natural wealth must not be viewed solely as economic commodities to be exploited for short-term gains. According to him, natural resources are a trust that must be preserved and managed for the benefit of the current population and future generations.

‘We believe that natural wealth is not merely an economic commodity. It is a divine trust from God Almighty that must be managed responsibly for the greatest prosperity of the people, and for our children and grandchildren, for the future, for generations to come,’ he added.

Prabowo then reminded that the success of development should not be measured solely by economic growth or other macroeconomic indicators. He insisted that development outcomes must be directly felt by the people, particularly those at the bottom of society.

‘Economic development must not just produce statistical figures. Economic development must result in a better life for all Indonesians,’ he stressed.

The President specifically highlighted the plight of children from poor families, which he said must be the country’s top priority. He emphasised that no Indonesian child should be deprived of adequate nutrition.

‘Our children, the weakest, poorest, and most powerless among us, must receive sufficient nutrition,’ he said.

Additionally, Prabowo underscored the welfare of farmers and fishermen as strategic groups underpinning national food security. He called for farmers to receive timely fertiliser at appropriate prices, while fishermen are granted fair market access and full state support.