JAKARTA – President Prabowo Subianto has directed Indonesia’s armed forces to safeguard the nation’s vast natural wealth from foreign exploitation, accusing outside entities of “stealing” and “smuggling” the country’s assets.
Speaking before thousands of soldiers at the military’s 80th anniversary celebration in Jakarta on October 5, Mr Prabowo urged the military to assist law enforcement and government bodies in ensuring that Indonesia’s natural resources are used to fight poverty and strengthen national prosperity.
“It’s no secret that our natural resources are abundant and we have, for hundreds of years, been disturbed and invaded by foreign powers,” he told assembled personnel from the army, navy, and air force. “Up until this very second, these irresponsible powers are still stealing and taking much of our resources.
”Since assuming office in 2024, the former general has pushed for greater state control over economic sectors, including natural resources, fiscal, and monetary policy, aiming to achieve 8% annual growth. His administration has widened the military’s role in civilian affairs, increased defence budgets, revised military laws, and assigned senior officers to head state-owned enterprises, including those managing over one million hectares of reclaimed palm oil plantations.
In a show of national unity, approximately 133,000 soldiers attended the celebration at Jakarta’s National Monument, marking the largest military anniversary event in the nation’s history, according to Kompas. Mr Prabowo also emphasized the need for technological advancement within the armed forces, particularly in artificial intelligence and cyber security. “Follow the developments and make sure you’re not left behind. If needed, replace obsolete personnel with the right persons for the interest of the nation,” he said.