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Prabowo Subianto Addresses “Dark Indonesia” Sentiment, Highlights National Potential
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jakarta, tempo – Indonesian Defense Minister and presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto has directly addressed the growing sentiment of pessimism surrounding Indonesia’s future, particularly the trending “Dark indonesia” narrative. He challenged those who advocate for leaving the country, asserting that opportunities abroad are not necessarily easier and that Indonesia possesses significant potential for a bright future, contingent on effective management of its natural wealth.
Challenging the Pessimism: A Call for Optimism
Prabowo Subianto has voiced his concern over what he perceives as a purposeful spread of pessimism, particularly among “smart peopel” who he believes should be taking on leadership roles. He noted a trend where the narrative being propagated is one of a ”dark Indonesia,” encouraging citizens to consider leaving the country.
“Smart people play the role of leaders,but what is being spread is pessimism,(about) dark Indonesia,flee (the country) first,” Prabowo stated,directly challenging the notion that emigration is a viable solution.
He further elaborated on this point, suggesting that life abroad is not as straightforward as some might imagine. “Flee (Indonesia) first. Well, it’s not easy there, (living) abroad. Where ever you are, you will be pursued there,” he remarked, implying that challenges are worldwide and that Indonesia’s own potential should be the focus.
Indonesia’s Bright Future: Rooted in Natural Wealth
Despite the prevailing negative sentiment, Prabowo remains confident in Indonesia’s future prospects. his optimism is firmly rooted in the nation’s abundant natural resources.
“However, according to Prabowo, Indonesia has a bright future. Prabowo’s confidence is based on the potential amount of natural wealth in Indonesia. ‘It’s just a matter of whether we can manage it or not,’ said Prabowo.”
This statement underscores his belief that the key to unlocking Indonesia’s potential lies in effective governance and resource management, rather than succumbing to despair.
Rebutting “Dark Indonesia” Claims: evidence of Progress
In April 2025, Prabowo also addressed the “Dark Indonesia” label, arguing that not everyone views the nation’s situation through such a bleak lens. He pointed to specific examples of progress, such as the success of farmers whose livelihoods he claims have been bolstered by policies that have successfully increased food production.
“Prabowo said not everyone considers Indonesia to be dark. He cited happy farmers whose policies he claimed had successfully increased food production.”
While acknowledging that Indonesia faces challenges, Prabowo maintained that the current situation remains manageable. He expressed a pragmatic stance on differing perspectives: “I won’t prohibit people from always looking at the darkness. If there are people who wont to see darkness, feel free,” he said, indicating a willingness to engage with criticism while still championing his vision.
The term “Dark Indonesia,” or Indonesia is dark, recently became a trending topic on social media platform X on Monday, February 17, 2025.The viral hashtag ‘IndonesiaGelap’ has been adopted by netizens as a slogan to highlight various issues they perceive within the government during the current management of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.
This social media trend reflects a segment of public discourse that Prabowo is actively seeking to counter with his message of national potential and the importance of effective leadership.
Novali Panji Nugroho contributed to this article.
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