President Admits to Being Mocked for Involving the Military and Police in Managing Rice Fields and Cornfields

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, NGANJUK – The President of Indonesia explained that the involvement of the TNI and Polri in the national food security program, such as managing cornfields and rice fields, demonstrates the commitment of the security apparatus to the people. He explained that the security forces should be present to assist the public, including in matters related to food security.

Prabowo revealed that he often receives mockery from abroad regarding the role of the TNI and Polri in realising national food security. He stated that he does not take the criticism seriously, as the role of the TNI and Polri in national food security has proven to be significant.

“I was asked, I was mocked in other countries. I am used to being mocked, it doesn’t matter. Let them mock. The people who are struggling suffer more every day,” Prabowo said during a speech at the inauguration of the Ibu Marsinah Museum in Nglundo Village, Sukomoro District, Nganjuk Regency, East Java, Saturday (16/5/2026).

He also revealed that the criticism came from certain parties who questioned why the military was involved in managing rice fields and why the police were involved in planting corn. According to Prabowo, the TNI and Polri are involved in the food security program because they are concerned about the needs of the Indonesian people.

“Why are the police taking care of corn, why are the soldiers taking care of rice fields? This is because the TNI is the army of the people, and our police must be the police of the people,” Prabowo said.