Prabowo urges public not to panic amidst global tensions
Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto has urged the public not to panic when facing a global situation deemed increasingly volatile, noting that Indonesia’s abundant natural resources require the nation to face various challenges with wisdom.
Delivering a speech during a meeting with the Central and Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) at the State Palace in Jakarta on Friday, the President stated that rising global geopolitical tensions should not cause Indonesia to be overcome by fear. Instead, such conditions should serve as a reminder for the entire nation to act with prudence and maintain unity.
“The global situation is very volatile, but there is no use in panicking or being afraid; rather, it should make us more aware, ensuring our actions and words are delivered with wisdom and kindness,” said Prabresso.
He assessed that Indonesia’s position as a large nation with rich natural resources has frequently made it a target for various interests for hundreds of years. Since the 16th century, the archipelago has been a destination for global powers due to its highly valuable commodities, particularly spices and high-quality timber.
According to the President, during that era, spices were a strategic necessity because refrigeration technology was unavailable, making them essential for preserving food during long-distance voyages.
Prabowo remarked that Indonesia’s natural wealth is both a blessing and a challenge. He noted that countries or regions endowed with such abundant resources often become targets of competing interests. “Those who are given, or countries and regions on earth that are given such rich natural resources, often become targets. Why is there turmoil in the Middle East? The Middle East has much gas, much oil, and many other minerals. War has been raging there for hundreds of years,” he said.
The President emphasised that Indonesia must continue to maintain unity, strengthen vigilance, and implement policies wisely to protect national interests amidst global dynamics filled with uncertainty.