Prabowo Furious at Jakarta's Elites for Often Forgetting Fishermen's Fate

Gorontalo, CNBC Indonesia - President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that his government will pay significant attention to fishermen and farmers throughout Indonesia. He also expressed anger over the fact that many people forget about the fate of farmers and fishermen.

Prabowo pointed out that the lives of fishermen have often been overlooked by policymakers at the centre.

“Fishermen are often forgotten by the smart people in Jakarta; they don’t care about their fate now. But the current government will pay attention to all fishermen and all farmers throughout Indonesia,” said Prabowo, during his visit to the Merah Putih Fishing Village in South Leato, Saturday (9/5/2026).

Prabowo stated that he understands the hardships of fishermen’s lives because they must face high risks at sea. He assessed that being a fisherman is not an easy profession because weather conditions and sea currents can change at any time.

“I understand, I am a former soldier, I understand that fishermen face great risks. At sea, it’s no joke; the weather can change, the currents can change,” he said.

According to Prabowo, fishermen risk their lives to earn a living for their families while also meeting the food needs of Indonesian society. Therefore, he emphasised that the government has a responsibility to improve their welfare.

“You risk your lives to find food for your families, for your community, for your nation. I thank you for that. I am determined to improve and respect our fishermen throughout Indonesia,” he stated.

At the end of his speech, Prabowo also hoped that the condition of fishermen’s fleets in the future would be even better and more modern. He even promised to return to see the development of the fishermen’s boats next year.

“Thank you, until we meet again. Next year, if your boats are better, invite me here, I want to see,” said Prabowo.