Prabowo Opens HIPMI National Conference, Jokes He Knows the Antics of HIPMI Figures
Bandar Lampung, CNBC Indonesia - President Prabowo Subianto opened the 18th National Congress of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI) in the city of Bandar Lampung, Lampung, on Wednesday (10/06/2026). In his opening remarks, Prabowo expressed his close connection with HIPMI.
Also in attendance were the Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly, Ahmad Muzani; the Chairman of the Regional Representative Council, Sutan Bachtiar Najamudin; the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources and Chairman of the HIPMI Honorary Board, Bahlil Lahadalia; the General Chairman of HIPMI, Akbar Himawan Buchari; and members of the Red and White Cabinet.
He noted that the numbering of the current HIPMI national congress aligns with his favourite number, eight.
“I was told that today is HIPMI’s anniversary, 10 June 2026. If you add the numbers, it is a good number: 10 June, June is the 6th month. So, 10 + 6 equals 17. One and seven equals eight,” said Prabowo.
“It is not finished. 2026 sums up to 10. Oh, alright then. No, 10. Yes, that is correct, 10. One plus six equals seven, seven plus 10 equals 17. One and seven equals eight. That is why the number eight is always associated with me. Therefore, it truly seems that HIPMI and I have been quite compatible for a long time,” he added.
On this occasion, Prabowo also stated that he is close to various HIPMI figures. He also joked that he is aware of the conduct of all HIPMI members.
“Because I know almost all the HIPMI figures. I am familiar with all of their behaviours. That is also true. So, do not try anything funny; I already know your ways, I am aware of all your gestures,” he said.
Furthermore, he noted that HIPMI is an important platform for young entrepreneurs. However, Prabowo continued, young entrepreneurs must also possess a high sense of nationalism for the progress of the nation.
“The perspective of nationalism, as expressed, is actually very important; there is no progress for a nation without nationalism,” he remarked.