TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto on Thursday launched Indonesia's nationwide implementation of B50 biodiesel, a fuel blend containing 50 percent palm oil-based biodiesel, claiming the country has become the first in the world to adopt the policy at a national level.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony at KM 57 Rest Area on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road in West Java, Prabowo said the program marked a major step toward Indonesia's energy independence.
"With the launch of this program, Indonesia has officially become the first country in the world to implement B50 biodiesel," Prabowo said on July 9.
The following were some of the key points raised by Prabowo during the launch of the B50 biodiesel program.
Wealthy Citizens Should Pay Higher Fuel Prices, Prabowo Says
During the event, Prabowo reiterated that fuel subsidies should continue to protect lower-income Indonesians, while wealthier citizens should pay market prices for non-subsidized fuel.
He said Indonesia had been praised internationally for maintaining affordable fuel prices for poorer households despite global economic challenges.
"I am surprised myself. World figures are discussing how Indonesia managed not to panic and not to raise fuel prices for the lower class. If it is for the rich, it is not a problem," Prabowo said.
The president then jokingly addressed several prominent business figures attending the event, including Adaro Energy President Director Garibaldi "Boy" Thohir, Indika Energy executive Arsjad Rasjid, and Danantara Indonesia CEO Rosan Roeslani.
"Boy, you have no problem paying higher prices. Arsjad, if you can afford a Lamborghini, you should be willing to pay more, right?" Prabowo said, drawing laughter from the audience.
Prabowo Reveals Discovery of Large Gold Reserves in Papua
Prabowo also disclosed that an Indonesian scientific expedition had recently discovered significant gold and mineral reserves in Papua's mountainous region.
According to him, the expedition involved researchers from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), several universities, and support from the Indonesian Military (TNI).
"I have just received a report, only a few hours ago, from our scientific expedition that has been underway for two or three weeks in the mountains of Papua. The team from BRIN, together with several universities and assisted by the TNI, has found very large reserves of gold and minerals," he said.
However, Prabowo did not provide details regarding the exact location of the discovery, the estimated size of the reserves, or the types of minerals found besides gold.
He nevertheless said the findings further strengthened Indonesia's economic outlook and future growth prospects.
Prabowo Says Many Countries Envy Indonesia
In his speech, Prabowo also claimed that many countries were envious of Indonesia and sought to undermine its progress.
"The world is full of competition. We never harbor ill will toward others, but many are envious and resentful of us. They want to weaken us and speak badly about us," he said.
The president pointed to narratives circulating on social media, including the hashtag "Dark Indonesia" and claims that the country is heading toward instability or collapse.
According to Prabowo, some of these narratives have also been amplified domestically.
"They hope for chaos. Imagine, Indonesians themselves hoping for chaos," he said.
Prabowo Rejects Accusations of Misleading the Public
Prabowo also denied accusations that his administration had misled the public, particularly regarding its claims of achieving food self-sufficiency.
He said many people had mocked or questioned the government's assertion that Indonesia had achieved food self-sufficiency within a year.
"Many people who consider themselves smart mock us, obstruct us, and accuse the government of lying to the people by saying we have not achieved food self-sufficiency," he said.
The president firmly rejected the accusation.
"It is sinful for a government to lie to its people. It is a betrayal for leaders to be unfaithful to their people, and it is treasonous for leaders not to place the interests of the nation above all else," Prabowo said.
The remarks came as Prabowo's administration continues to place food security and energy independence at the center of its economic agenda.
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
