Prabowo: Indonesian Leaders Are Not Stupid, Not Cowards

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that Indonesia is now a mature country, and its leaders are not stupid, naive, or cowardly. He made the remarks during the virtual groundbreaking ceremony for the Masela Gas Project in the Tanimbar Islands, Maluku, on Thursday, 16 July 2026. “All parties must understand that Indonesia is now mature. Indonesian leaders are not stupid, naive, or cowardly leaders,” Prabowo said. He stated that Indonesia maintains good and friendly relations with all countries, whether large, small, strong, or weak, and is open to mutually beneficial partnerships. However, he noted that some parties still look down on Indonesia. “Indeed, there are parties who always look down on the Indonesian nation, who always underestimate the Indonesian nation, who always mock the Indonesian nation behind our backs,” he said. Prabowo suggested this perception arises because the Indonesian people’s kindness and hospitality are mistaken for weakness. He also acknowledged the ongoing conflicts and wars in the Middle East but expressed gratitude that Indonesia remains in good condition. “We are aware that the global environment is currently full of uncertainty, full of conflict and tension, even war everywhere, and we are still grateful that our region is in a state of peace,” he said.