Prabowo: Indonesian Leaders Are Not Stupid, Not Cowards

Jakarta, VIVA – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed that Indonesia is now a mature nation. Indonesian leaders, Prabowo said, are not foolish, naive or cowardly.

The President made the remarks during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Masela Gas Project in the Tanimbar Islands, Maluku, held online on Thursday, 16 July 2026.

“All parties must understand that Indonesia is now mature. Indonesia’s leaders are not foolish or naive leaders, not cowardly leaders,” Prabowo said.

On this occasion, Prabowo said that Indonesia maintains good and friendly relations with all countries, whether large, small, strong or weak. Indonesia is also open to partnerships and mutually beneficial cooperation with all nations. However, some still look down on Indonesia.

“Indeed, there are parties who always look down on the Indonesian nation, who always belittle us, who always mock us behind our backs,” he said.

Prabowo attributed this perception to the character of the Indonesian people, who are known for being welcoming towards others.

“Perhaps it is because of the kindness of the Indonesian people, our hospitality, that our nation is so friendly and is judged as weak,” he said.

At the same time, he acknowledged the ongoing conflicts and wars in the Middle East that have persisted for a long time. However, Prabowo expressed gratitude that Indonesia remains safe and sound.

“We are aware that the world today is full of uncertainty, full of conflict, tension and even war everywhere, and we are still grateful that our region is at peace,” Prabowo said.

Prabowo also noted that the nation’s founders had no enemies. As a result, he said, Indonesia continues to maintain good relations with all friendly nations.

“We are grateful for the legacy of our nation’s founders, that in truth Indonesia has no enemies. Alhamdulillah, we now have good relations with all our neighbours,” Prabowo said.