Prabowo Reluctant to Use Scripts for Speeches: I Prefer Speaking Candidly!
President Prabowo Subianto has admitted that he dislikes delivering speeches using prepared texts. He noted that he is frequently cautioned by political and communication experts regarding the risks of speaking without a script.
Prabowo revealed this during his address at the 28th anniversary celebration of the PAN party in Jakarta on Friday, 18 September 2026.
“I am always told by advisors and experts—political experts, communication experts—‘Mr Prabowo, do not give speeches without text. You must use a text’,” said Prabowo.
The Head of State admitted that he feels more comfortable speaking directly and candidly when conveying messages to the public. “But how can it be? I simply prefer to speak as I am,” he remarked.
Prabow also mentioned that he often receives feedback suggesting he should use more refined language when delivering speeches as President. “They say a president’s speech must be subtle. That I shouldn’t speak [too bluntly]. But what can I do? I want to speak to my people,”
He stated that his experience leading soldiers has given him a deep understanding of the character of the people. Prabowo noted that the soldiers he once commanded are an integral part of the citizenry. “I know them, I know my people. I might know them better than many others, because I have led soldiers. Soldiers are the children of the people,” said Prabowo.
On that occasion, Prabowo also touched upon the public’s response to his spontaneous speaking style. He claimed to observe from the expressions and eyes of the audience that they enjoy it when he speaks without a script. “I can see it from your faces. I can see it from your eyes, you like it when I speak without text, right?” he asked.
Prabowo then contrasted this response with the views held by experts and elites. “Those who do not like it are the experts, the elites,” he said.
He also noted that journalists are a group he believes are always waiting for the spontaneous statements he makes on various occasions. “But I am careful with journalists. I know you are waiting. They are waiting, waiting for me to speak,” Prabowo concluded.