Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto urged the public not to panic over an increasingly volatile global situation, saying Indonesia’s abundant natural resources mean the country must confront various challenges wisely.
Speaking at a meeting with the central and regional chapters of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) at the State Palace in Jakarta on Friday, the President said rising geopolitical tensions should not make Indonesia fearful.
“The global situation is very volatile, but there is no point in panicking or being afraid. Instead, it should make us more aware that we must act, speak, and conduct ourselves with wisdom and kindness,” Prabowo said.
Prabowo said Indonesia’s size and abundant natural resources had made the archipelago a target of competing interests for centuries.
Since the 16th century, the Indonesian archipelago has attracted nations from around the world because of its highly valuable commodities, particularly spices and high-quality timber, he said.
Spices were especially valuable at the time because refrigeration technology did not yet exist, making them essential for preserving food during long voyages, Prabowo said.
Indonesia’s natural wealth is both a blessing and a challenge, he said, noting that countries and regions rich in natural resources often become targets of competing interests.
“People, countries, or regions blessed with abundant natural resources often become targets. Why is there conflict in the Middle East? The region has abundant gas, oil, and other valuable minerals. Wars have raged there for hundreds of years,” he said.
Prabowo said Indonesia must maintain national unity, strengthen vigilance, and pursue wise policies to safeguard its national interests amid global uncertainty.
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Translator: Galuh/Fathur, Kuntum Khaira
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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