Prabowo Surprised That Hunger Alleviation Program is Called Wasteful: Is This Odd?

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - President Prabowo Subianto expressed his astonishment that his administration's initiative to eliminate hunger in Indonesia has been deemed wasteful by several experts from universities in Jakarta.

Prabowo criticized those who oppose this plan, pointing out their silence over the ongoing outflow of Indonesia's wealth abroad.

"There are experts at universities in Jakarta. I don't know which university. When we talk about wanting to eliminate hunger, it's called wasteful. But for decades our wealth has been leaving Indonesia, and they stay silent," Prabowo said during his speech at the opening of the Tanwir and 114th Anniversary of Muhammadiyah in South Sulawesi on Saturday (14/11/2026).

"They remain silent. No comments. No critiques," he added firmly.

Prabowo emphasized that eradicating poverty and hunger is one of the goals his administration seeks to achieve.

"Ladies and gentlemen, our goal must be to eradicate poverty from the lands of Indonesia. We must eliminate hunger from the lands of Indonesia. Is this strange?" he stated.

He then expressed his disappointment regarding the various criticisms aimed at the government when trying to assist the poor.

"This President of the Republic of Indonesia wants to help the poor, but faces attacks, slander, blows, and threats, among others," Prabowo said.

Despite this, Prabowo affirmed that he would not halt the government's efforts simply due to criticism and threats.

"Do I care? Go ahead. I will keep moving forward," Prabowo asserted.