Prabowo: I Have the Utmost Respect for Experts
President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that he respects experts and academics, using their input as a primary consideration in determining government policy.
This was stated by Prabowo while inviting several experts and academics to discuss peatland management and the potential for forest and land fires at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Thursday, 24 September 2026.
“Do not misunderstand; sometimes when I speak to an audience, my words are twisted to make it seem as though I do not respect experts. I have the utmost respect for experts,” said Prabowo, as monitored from the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube broadcast on Friday, 25 September 2026.
Prabowo stated that he always endeavours to seek input from individuals with specific expertise in a particular field before making decisions.
“Why was I successful as an officer? Because I always seek out experts,” he remarked.
Prabowo specifically requested that experts provide input regarding the best steps to prevent fires in forest areas, particularly those containing peatlands.
The Head of State proposed three main points for discussion: measures to prevent forest fires, specific measures for forest areas containing peat, and the possibility of utilising peatlands productively.
“As experts, please tell me: what is the best step for us to prevent forest fires, firstly? Secondly, regarding forest areas that contain peat. Two things. And thirdly, what I ask for is your advice: can we utilise this peat towards a productive direction?” said Prabulate.
The President also requested scientific input regarding peatland management, including the possibility of planting crops on such land, so that fire prevention can be implemented through a knowledge-based approach.
Prabowo noted that the government has implemented physical mitigation steps, such as preparing firefighting equipment, reservoirs, and pumps before fires occur. However, he maintained that specific scientific solutions for peatland areas are also required.
“If possible, there should be a scientific answer, a scientific solution,” said Prabowo.