Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto Faces Criticism Over Extensive Foreign Travel Amid Domestic Fuel Crisis

Since his inauguration on October 20, 2024, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has embarked on 51 official visits to 28 countries, accumulating at least 99 days overseas. His recent travels include discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron, focusing on energy supplies and defense procurement. This extensive travel comes at a time when Indonesia is grappling with rising global oil prices, which have intensified pressure on the country's fuel subsidy bill.

The public's reaction to Prabowo's frequent international trips has been largely negative, particularly as the government has implemented measures to reduce fuel consumption domestically. These measures include a work-from-home scheme for civil servants and limits on subsidized fuel purchases. Critics argue that while Prabowo claims to be securing jobs and energy supplies for Indonesia, the tangible benefits of his travels remain unclear.

Prabowo has defended his extensive travel by stating, “I travel to look after my people. To [provide] them with jobs.” He emphasizes the necessity of his presence in negotiations to improve Indonesia's bargaining position in bilateral agreements. Despite his assertions, many citizens question the effectiveness of these trips, with some social media users expressing skepticism about the actual job creation resulting from his diplomatic efforts.

Political analysts have raised concerns regarding the lack of concrete outcomes from Prabowo's foreign engagements. Wasisto Raharjo Jati, a political analyst, noted that the public has not felt any direct impact from these visits, which have primarily resulted in agreements without implementation. Furthermore, Dafri Agussalim, a lecturer in international relations, criticized the perceived degradation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under Prabowo's leadership, suggesting that diplomacy could be effectively conducted without the president's constant presence abroad.

Reports have surfaced regarding the logistics of Prabowo's travels, including claims that his entourage requires two jets for overseas trips. While officials have stated that this is standard procedure for a president, critics question the necessity of such arrangements, especially in light of the economic challenges faced by the nation. Teddy Indra Wijaya, cabinet secretary, defended the travel arrangements as efficient and professional, countering allegations of wastefulness.

As Indonesia continues to navigate the complexities of rising fuel prices and economic pressures, the effectiveness of Prabowo's diplomatic strategy remains under scrutiny. The government faces the challenge of demonstrating that these international engagements translate into real benefits for the Indonesian populace, particularly in job creation and economic development. The ongoing debate highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the administration's foreign policy initiatives.

• “I travel to look after my people. To [provide] them with jobs,” — Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia

• “The problem is, so far, we haven’t felt the direct impact of these foreign visits on society.” — Wasisto Raharjo Jati, Political Analyst

• “Diplomacy can be conducted through the representative offices of the countries we’re targeting, or through the networks of entrepreneurs who regularly import the goods.” — Dafri Agussalim, Lecturer in International Relations