Prabowo's Satire: Commendators On Social Media Are As If They Are Smarter Than Me

Presiden Prabowo Subianto di Kongres PSI di Solo, Minggu (21/7?2025) (dok Setneg)

The President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, highlighted the rampant phenomenon of people who feel that they know everything the most, especially in responding to political and government issues that are widely discussed on social media.

This was conveyed by the President when giving a speech at the closing of the 2025 Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) Congress, which took place in Surakarta, Central Java, Sunday, July 21 evening.

"Now there is a phenomenon, not only in Indonesia. I travel abroad and they also complain about the same thing. Many people feel they are the smarter," Prabowo said in front of congress participants.

The President assessed that many people nowadays easily comment on various issues, although they do not have a solid basis for knowledge or arguments. In fact, he highlighted the many speculations circulating on social media and podcasts, especially those related to him.

"I often monitor social media, podcasts, and a lot of people discuss me. Sometimes I wonder, they seem to know more than I know myself," he said.

One example that he raised was public speculation about the strained relationship between himself and the 7th President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo (Jokowi), as well as criticism of his praise for the elephant which is now a new symbol of PSI.

Although he considers it part of the dynamics of democracy, the President reminded the public not to abuse freedom of expression, especially by spreading false information, hate speech, or hoaxes.

"The technology of information is important, but don't misuse it. We must not be lazy to communicate, to talk," he said.

The President also mentioned the leadership style of himself and President Jokowi who tend to focus on real work rather than talk at length in public.

"People like me and Pak Jokowi, actually prefer work. We don't really like speeches," Prabowo concluded.