Prabowo Praises Indonesia’s Democratic Character at Political Party Event

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, stressed the importance of maintaining unity, harmony, and maturity in democratic life. He said differences of opinion are part of democracy, but should not diminish the spirit of togetherness as one nation.

Prabowo said that a great nation that has chosen the path of democracy must be open to criticism and correction. In his view, criticism, suggestions, and differing opinions are important parts of democratic life as long as they are guided by a commitment to working in the interests of the people.

"Indeed, a great nation that has chosen the path of democracy must be grateful for criticism and correction," he said in his remarks at the culmination of the 25th anniversary commemoration of the Democratic Party, held in Jakarta on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

Democratic Party (Partai Demokrat) is a centrist political party founded by former military officer Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), who later served as President of Indonesia from 2004 to 2014. The party, adhering to Indonesia’s five foundational principles of Pancasila and a "nationalist-religious" ideological orientation, is now part of Prabowo's government coalition.

Furthermore, President Prabowo said Indonesian democracy has demonstrated its maturity. Competition and differences in political choices can coexist with friendship, a sense of family, and harmony.

"Different colors compete, offer criticism, make suggestions, give recommendations, and raise issues that may not be easy to say, but we remain harmonious, we remain friends, we remain a family. This is what we must hold on to," the President stressed, as quoted from the Indonesian Presidential Secretariat.

Prabowo reminded the audience that Indonesia is a very large nation, meaning the challenges it faces are also complex. He cited the scale of public services in Indonesia, which must reach hundreds of thousands of schools, including those in mountainous areas and remote islands.

"So, indeed, our problems are big, our challenges are big, and we live in an environment with many challenges as well. But, thank God, at the age of 81, our nation is strong and united. We may be different, but we are strong, united, and becoming increasingly stronger as we face the future," he said.

Amid these various challenges, Prabowo expressed optimism about Indonesia’s future, citing various projections that place Indonesia among the world’s largest economic powers in the years ahead. He said this must be prepared, particularly because today’s younger generation will eventually assume responsibility for continuing the nation’s progress.

“Mr. SBY and I are, in a sense, like steps on a staircase that the younger generation will be used to climb higher, take over the responsibility, and continue the resurgence of the Indonesian nation,” the President said.