Prabowo: Indonesia Remains Bright
President Prabowo Subianto has dismissed pessimistic narratives regarding the national condition amid global uncertainties. During a briefing at the Red and White Cabinet Working Meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday (8/4), he emphasised that Indonesia is instead in a relatively advantageous position.
“For me, there is no such thing as a dark Indonesia; Indonesia is bright. At a time when many countries are struggling,” he stated.
According to Prabowo, the heating up of global geopolitics, including the potential for large-scale conflicts, actually positions Indonesia as one of the countries considered safe. He assessed that this position becomes a unique attraction in the eyes of the international community.
“You know, if World War III happens, which country would be safe? Indonesia is among the top,” he said.
He cited the phenomenon of increasing presence of foreign nationals in several domestic destinations as an indication of that trust. Bali was mentioned as one of the magnets, even for citizens from countries currently in conflict.
“Now if you go to Bali, you’ll see how many Russians are there, how many Ukrainians are there. Our plan is to create a special financial centre. We’re looking for a location. If Pak Luhut suggests Bali. I don’t know, Pak Luhut really likes Bali. But we all like Bali,” Prabowo remarked.
The idea of establishing that special financial centre, according to Prabowo, has actually been discussed for a long time. However, the current global situation makes that opportunity even more relevant, especially with the movement of funds from unstable regions.
“But this idea that Pak Luhut has been talking about for years turns out that now the money from the Middle East, where does it want to go? Which country is not at war now? Tell me. Indonesia is one of the most sought after,” he revealed.
Despite his optimism, Prabowo reminded that the magnitude of that potential must be balanced with preparedness and more serious work. He stressed the importance of thoroughness and discipline in managing the existing opportunities.
“So, the main point is that we have a lot of potential. But this is also what I said makes us now have to work harder, more meticulously,” he concluded.