Prabowo Says Divide et Impera is Still Real in the Middle of the World's Turbulence

President Prabowo Subianto (Dok Tim Media Presiden)

JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto reminded the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) to understand Indonesia's position in the midst of world turmoil. According to Prabowo, countries rich in natural resources are always the target of the interests of other parties.

This was conveyed by Prabowo when he received the Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) Anindya Bakrie and the managers of Kadin throughout Indonesia at the Presidential Palace Complex, Jakarta, Friday, July 31.

Prabowo said the current global situation is very vulnerable. Wars are taking place in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, the Middle East, Myanmar, to Thailand and Cambodia tensions.

However, he asked Indonesia not to panic. According to Prabowo, Indonesia must be more aware, vigilant, and wise in reading the world situation.

"There is no point in us panicking, there is no point in us being afraid. But it also makes us have to be more aware," said Prabowo.

Prabowo said Indonesia is a big and rich country. This wealth has made Indonesia a target for a long time.

"Human law, natural law, wealth cause envy," he said.

Prabowo then drew history to the Nusantara era. In the 16th and 17th centuries, foreign nations came because they were looking for spices and wood.

Spices are needed to preserve food when the ship sails far away. Nusantara wood is also sought after because it is suitable for building sea vessels.

"It's always a matter of commodities," said Prabowo.

He said the pattern did not stop in the past. Prabowo gave an example of conflicts in the Middle East related to oil, gas, and minerals.

According to Prabowo, countries or regions with large natural wealth often become arenas for the struggle for influence.

"People or countries that are given such rich natural resources are often targets," he said.

Prabowo then alluded to divisive politics. He said divide et impera was not just a term in history books.

"Divide et impera is not a writing in history books. It is real. Real. Divide et impera is real," said Prabowo.

Prabowo said the warning was delivered because of the turmoil he said was happening before his eyes. Therefore, he asked the economic elite, including the business world, to maintain cooperation and not easily dragged into disputes.