Prabowo Explains His Close Ties to Farmers and Fishermen

President Prabowo Subianto has explained the reason behind his close association with farmers and fishermen, a relationship that has often drawn public attention. According to Prabowo, his bond with these communities is rooted in the long history of Indonesia’s struggle for independence.

Speaking at the peak event of the 17th National Farmers and Fishermen Week (Penas) in Gorontalo on Wednesday, Prabowo said, “Besides being an honour, this is also a source of pride for me because I have been fighting alongside farmers and fishermen for quite some time. People ask why Prabowo Subianto is always with farmers and fishermen.”

As a former soldier, Prabowo recounted that he deeply understands the significant role of farmers and fishermen. He stated that they have been the backbone of the Indonesian military’s struggle since the very beginning of independence. “I explain it very simply: because I am a former soldier, a former member of the Indonesian military. From the birth of the Indonesian military, soldiers have always been supported and assisted by farmers and fishermen,” he said.

Prabowo reminded the audience that when Indonesia proclaimed its independence, the country did not yet have an established budget or payroll system. It was the farmers and fishermen who provided support, giving food to the Indonesian fighters. “When we declared our independence, there was no budget yet, no state budget, no salary. They chose Indonesia, chose it out of love for the nation, not because of a salary,” he stated. “But the soldiers at that time were supported; their food was provided by Indonesian farmers and fishermen.”

He asserted that all Indonesian forces, including the police, were able to carry out their struggle because of the support of the people, especially farmers and fishermen. “The TNI, all Indonesian troops, the fighters, including the police, were supported by the people, supported by farmers and fishermen,” Prabowo concluded.