Prabowo to New Officers: Remember, Your Position Is Only Entrusted!
Jakarta, VIVA – President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto delivered a strong moral message to 1,177 officer candidates (Capaja) of the TNI and Polri who were officially commissioned at the 2026 Prasetya Perwira (Praspa) ceremony.
Before the young officers, Prabowo reminded them that every facility they enjoy comes from the people, so service to the community must be their primary compass in carrying out the duties of the state.
He delivered this message while leading the Praspa ceremony on the grounds of the Merdeka Palace in Central Jakarta on Wednesday, 22 July 2026.
In his address, Prabowo explained that an officer must never forget their origins and their responsibility to the public. According to him, the education, equipment and income received by soldiers and Polri members are a trust financed by the people.
“Always remember, you were born of the people and educated with the people’s money. The clothes you wear, from head to toe, come from the people,” he said.
“Your food comes from the people, your salary comes from the people. Always serve the people. Be the protector, guardian and defender of the people,” Prabowo continued.
Prabowo stressed that society does not demand that state officials be flawless. What the people expect, he said, is honesty, courage, justice and a real presence when the community faces difficulties.
“The people do not demand that you be perfect. The people demand that you be honest, that you be brave, that you be just, and that you always appear and are present when needed,” he said.
Prabowo also reminded the officers not to be seduced by position or rank. According to him, rank is merely a temporary trust, while service to the nation will become a legacy remembered throughout history.
“Remember, rank is only a trust. Rank will pass. What history remembers is your service to the nation and the state,” he affirmed.
Beyond his message to the new officers, President Prabowo paid tribute to the parents and families who supported their sons and daughters until they successfully attained the rank of first officer.
He judged that this success could not be separated from the prayers, sacrifices and steadfastness of families who entrusted their children to serve the state.
“To the parents and families, I convey my respect and gratitude on behalf of the nation and the Indonesian people — thank you, fathers and mothers, for allowing your children to belong to the nation and the people,” he explained.