Projo Leader Budi Arie Calls on Members to Become 'Patriots' in Face of Global Tensions Impact
Budi Arie Setiadi, chairman of the Democratic Party Central Board’s Projo faction, has called on party members to become “patriots” amidst economic challenges and global security conditions that are beginning to impact Indonesia. According to him, international tensions are increasingly affecting ordinary Indonesians.
“We must become patriots. First, we need to build global awareness that no matter how small an event outside Indonesia is, it will have an impact on Indonesia. However, we need to remain optimistic and confident that we are capable of overcoming it,” said Budi Arie in a statement on Saturday (14 March 2026).
Budi Arie cited Indonesia’s experience in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated that the crisis could be overcome because of cooperation between the government and the community.
“It is proven that during the COVID-19 crisis we were able to overcome it. Indonesia is a fighting nation. Second, I hope government elites will be more prudent and wise in responding to public criticism,” he said.
Additionally, Budi Arie also reminded government elites to be wise in responding to criticism from society. He hoped that criticism conveyed by various parties would remain directed at the interests of the nation and state.
“On the other hand, to our academic friends and civil society, we should consciously direct all forms of criticism purely for the interests of the people, nation and state,” he said.
“This is our nation. No matter how small we are, we have a responsibility. So it is time for us to continue increasing national vigilance but remain optimistic that we can get through this storm together,” Budi Arie continued.
Budi Arie affirmed that Projo is ready to serve as a venue for constructive criticism in order to produce strategic solutions amidst global challenges.
“In order to protect the interests of the nation and people. We are also ready to be a platform for all constructive criticism to jointly produce strategic and practical solutions,” he said.