Prabowo Asks: Should I Speak Politely or Honestly?

President Prabowo Subianto addressed his public speaking style during the inauguration of five dams in West Nusa Tenggara on Friday, July 10, 2026. He acknowledged that his directness, sometimes perceived as impolite, often draws attention.

Speaking about corruption in Indonesia, the Chairman of the Gerindra Party expressed gratitude for the government's achievements despite facing resistance from corrupt individuals. He emphasized the need for caution when speaking, particularly in the presence of journalists, to avoid using harsh language fueled by his frustration.

"There are journalists here, so I must speak carefully. I must speak politely," Prabowo stated, as broadcast by the Presidential Secretariat. He elaborated that using strong expletives, such as calling corruptors "bajingan" (scoundrels), would lead to media scrutiny. "I cannot say corruptors are scoundrels. Then what will be highlighted is, 'Prabowo says scoundrel. The President must speak politely,'" he remarked.

Prabowo then posed a question to the attendees: "Do you want me to speak politely or do you want me to speak honestly?" he asked, referring to his role as the former Minister of Defense. He continued by stating his intention to confront "thieves and corruptors," emphasizing that this would be done "in accordance with legal procedures." He asserted that the law applies to everyone, not just the powerful.

During the event in West Lombok, Prabowo inaugurated the Meninting Dam. The simultaneous inauguration of five dams across three provinces included the Keureuto and Rukoh Dams in Aceh, the Jlantah Dam in Central Java, and the Sidan Dam in Bali. These projects, constructed between 2015 and 2025, had a combined cost of Rp 9.79 trillion. Prabowo noted that dam construction requires significant time, funding, and resources, often spanning multiple presidential terms, expressing his gratitude for being able to inaugurate these specific dams.