The Uninvited Guest Who Overstays Their Welcome

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President Prabowo Subianto warned of foreign entities entering Indonesia under the guise of trade, only to engage in what he described as “robbery.” Speaking at the 79th Cooperative Day commemoration at the Indonesia Arena in Jakarta on July 12, 2026, the President characterized the Indonesian people as inherently kind and “innocent” in their treatment of guests, a trait he suggested is sometimes exploited by those who arrive uninvited.

Did You Know? The President’s remarks were delivered during the 79th Cooperative Day celebration in Senayan, Jakarta, where he addressed a crowd that included high-level officials such as the Attorney General and the National Police Chief.

National Character and the Risk of Exploitation

President Prabowo emphasized that Indonesia’s cultural tendency is to prioritize hospitality, even when resources are scarce. He noted that the nation’s inclination is to welcome any guest into a home, regardless of whether the host has coffee or sugar to offer. However, he cautioned that this hospitality is sometimes met with a lack of reciprocity or respect from international visitors.

The President alleged that some of these guests arrive without formal invitations, claiming to seek trade opportunities while ultimately intending to “rob” the country. While he provided this assessment of the nation’s diplomatic and economic vulnerabilities, he stopped short of identifying specific countries or entities involved in such activities.

Media Relations and Public Discourse

During the event, the President addressed the presence of the media, acknowledging their role in covering his statements. He lightheartedly suggested that journalists were waiting for him to make a slip-up, yet he maintained that he considers the press his “friends.” When he asked the audience—and specifically the Minister of Religion—if he should speak candidly about these international issues, he used the moment to reiterate his commitment to speaking openly despite the potential for media scrutiny.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific event prompted the President’s comments?
The remarks were made during the peak commemoration of the 79th Cooperative Day, held at the Indonesia Arena in Senayan, Jakarta, on July 12, 2026.

Did the President name the countries he claims are “robbing” Indonesia?
No, President Prabowo did not provide details or identify the specific parties he referred to as uninvited guests who engage in robbery.

How did the President describe the character of the Indonesian people?
He described the nation as being “too kind-hearted” and “innocent,” noting that Indonesians prioritize hospitality even when they lack the resources to host guests properly.

How might this rhetoric impact the way foreign investors approach potential business opportunities in Indonesia?

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