Prabowo Subianto Affirms Indonesia Must Strengthen Defense

Minister of Defense Prabowo Subianto emphasized the importance of strengthening national defense to protect Indonesia's extraordinary natural wealth.

In a joint working meeting with Commission I of the DPR, Prabowo acknowledged that the goal of having a strong defense has not been fully achieved. However, this is because priority is still given for the welfare of the people.

"Our defense budget is only 0.89 percent of GDP, one of the lowest in Asia," Prabowo said, Wednesday, September 25.

At the meeting, it was agreed on a ratification of the Draft Law on Defense Cooperation with five countries, namely India, France, the United Arab Emirates, Brazil, and Cambodia.

Prabowo expressed his gratitude for the full support from Commission I of the DPR in the discussion of the bill.

"I thank Commission I for its hard work," he said.

Closing the meeting, Prabowo also apologized if there were disappointing things during his tenure as Minister of Defense.

However, he emphasized that all actions taken were always in order to safeguard Indonesia's interests and sovereignty.

"But I want you to believe that my intention is to maintain the interests and sovereignty of the Indonesian nation. If we want to continue to be sovereign and independent, we must have a strong defense. May Indonesia always be strong and victorious," said the Minister of Defense.