Prabowo to Students: Even as President, I Frequently Face Mockery

President Prabowo Subianto has advised students to remain undaunted when facing mockery from others. According to Prabowo, anyone can be subject to ridicule or bullying, even a president.

Prabowo shared his personal experiences of facing such insults during a visit to the Tabanan 17 Junior High School (SRMP) in Bali on Sunday, 7 June 2026. “Far from you, I am often mocked; even now, as president, I am frequently ridiculed. It is alright, as long as your heart is steadfast and your heart is good,” Prabowo stated in Bali, as broadcast via the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube account.

For the former Minister of Defence during President Joko Widodo’s era, the appropriate response to insults is to reply with politeness. “The more you are insulted, the more steadfast, brave, and polite you should become. If insulted, be polite. Do not be disheartened,” Prabowo remarked.

This message was delivered after Prabowo heard the story of a student at SRMP 17 Tabanan, Gede Bagus Abimanyu, who admitted to being frequently teased by classmates during primary school.

On this occasion, Prabowo also conveyed that economic difficulties are not an obstacle to success. He noted that many successful individuals in Indonesia were born into families with limited economic means, yet they were able to persevere and change their destinies. “Many who succeed come from very poor families—there are many—but their children do not want to give up, they do not despair, and they remain joyful,” said Prabowo.

He added, “In the midst of difficulty, look for the good; goodness will surely come.”

Prabowo further urged students to always work hard, study, maintain discipline, respect teachers, and maintain harmony with everyone. “Do not hate others. Live well and in harmony. That is the key to success,” he concluded.