Prabowo Says Indonesia in Global Spotlight for Leading Emission Cuts Through B50
President Prabowo Subianto has described the launch of B50 biodiesel as a historic moment for Indonesia. He said the implementation of B50 has drawn global attention because the country is considered one of the frontrunners in efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
"This is a day of pride, it will be remembered, and it has already made the world open its eyes," Prabowo said during the launch at Rest Area Km 57 in Karawang, West Java, on Thursday.
He recounted that many world figures are talking about Indonesia because, amid a global oil crisis, the country did not panic and even refrained from raising domestic fuel prices for the lower classes.
"I was surprised myself that world figures are talking about Indonesia. How did Indonesia succeed, how did Indonesia not panic, how did Indonesia not raise fuel prices for ordinary people," he said.
Prabowo then remarked that rising fuel prices are not a problem for the wealthy. He gestured towards businessmen Boy Thohir and Arsjad Rasjid, saying they would have no issue with higher fuel costs.
"For the rich, it’s not a problem, right Boy? Right, Boy? No problem, Boy, isn’t that right? Who else has no problem? Arsjad, if you dare to drive a Lamborghini, you have to dare to pay a high price, right? Rosan also has no problem, right, Rosan?" Prabowo said, drawing laughter from the audience.
He further explained that the implementation of B50 biodiesel can reduce carbon emissions by 44 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. According to him, this achievement is proof of Indonesia’s contribution to supporting global efforts to tackle climate change.
"So, ladies and gentlemen, today is truly historic. We are being talked about by the world. Why are we being talked about? Because we are leading in what? In reducing carbon emissions," he said.
"We are leading, they know we have the B50 programme. How much did we save in emissions earlier? 44 million… 44 million what? Tonnes, tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. We reduced 44 million," Prabowo continued.