Prabowo: Economics is Simple, Not a 'God-like Science'

President Prabowo Subianto asserted that economics is fundamentally a simple science, urging against viewing national wealth management as an overly complex discipline. "Economics should not be considered a god-like science. Economics is simple," Prabowo declared during a speech at the 28th anniversary of the National Awakening Party (PKB) in Jakarta on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

The Chairman of the Gerindra Party believes economic principles are easily understandable, likening them to managing a coffee shop. "If you open a coffee shop, that's economics. How much is the cost of one cup of coffee? How much is it sold for? The difference is profit, and profit should be saved," he explained.

Prabowo argued that if coffee shop earnings are not saved, the owner will never prosper. He drew a parallel to Indonesia's national wealth management, stating that the nation's riches have historically flowed abroad instead of being saved domestically. "Indonesia's wealth is taken abroad and not saved because it's not in Indonesia," the former Minister of Defense remarked, calling the situation illogical and unjustifiable.

"How can we provide a decent life for our people if our wealth is continuously taken abroad and not enjoyed by our people?" Prabowo questioned. The President attended the PKB event with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, arriving at the JCC Plenary Hall around 7:40 PM. Prabowo wore a white safari outfit, while Gibran sported a brown batik shirt. Upon arrival, Prabowo, accompanied by PKB Chairman Muhaimin Iskandar, greeted guests including party executives, religious leaders, and coalition party officials.