Prabowo on Declining Approval Ratings: I Work for the People
President Prabowo Subianto has responded to survey results from several institutions showing a decline in public satisfaction (approval rating) towards his administration. The response was delivered by Prabowo during a dialogue with senior journalists and experts at Padepokan Garuda Yaksa, Hambalang, Bogor Regency, West Java, on Sunday (6/9/2026).
During the session, Prabowo was questioned regarding survey results showing declining approval ratings, currently ranging between 40% and 50% according to several agencies. Before answering, Prabowo began with a personal statement.
“I work for the people. I have been sworn in, and I believe this deeply. In due time, the people will decide whether I am given another mandate or not,” he stated.
When asked if there are political risks to be borne from these survey results due to the implementation of priority programmes, such as the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, Prabowo stated that every endeavour involves risks that must be accepted. He noted that the government’s focus on the food sector is essential to mitigate the impacts of current geopolitical conditions.
“Life involves risk; driving a car involves risk, doesn’t it? But the important thing is this: hungry people cannot wait long. In a country like ours, which dares to participate in the G20, I personally cannot accept hunger,” said Praborbw.
“So, if you say I am accelerating, then yes. I originally allocated four years for food self-sufficiency. But to be honest, I must admit I have an agricultural team and a great Minister of Agriculture,” the former Minister of Defence continued.
However, Prabowo admitted he was saddened by the negative assessments from certain experts, as one of the government’s major achievements has been achieving food self-sufficiency within one year.
“There are experts who consider themselves clever, yet they refuse to acknowledge the nation’s achievements, even though they benefit from them. My heart is set; I work for the people. That is all that matters to me, my team, and my ministers. So, while risks exist, I believe in evidence and the truth,” he said.
Prabowo explained that the ongoing war in the Middle East has caused food security issues in many countries. Even neighbouring countries such as Malaysia, the Philippines, and Japan have experienced significant increases in rice prices.
For this reason, Prabowo admitted he does not dwell too much on expert opinions, as he continues to receive warm welcomes from the public during his working visits.
“So I think to myself, I am very confident because every time I appear before the people, they flock to welcome me. Therefore, for me, the important thing is that we work,” he said.
Regarding whether these surveys would become an electoral burden heading towards the 2029 Presidential Election, Prabowo replied, “No, I trust in the wisdom of our people. Our people are no longer foolish.”