TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto feels guilty for being a leader who is too concerned with details. During the Japan-Indonesia Business Forum in Tokyo, Japan, Prabowo referred to himself as a micromanager, meaning a boss who excessively controls the work of his subordinates, down to the smallest details.
"I am a hands-on manager," said Prabowo in Tokyo on Monday, March 30, 2026.
According to Prabowo, his assistants in the cabinet also call him a micromanager. Prabowo acknowledged this. "Yes, I admit I am a micromanager. I will call my ministers at 2 AM or 5 AM and ask for the price of eggs today," he said.
He admitted to regretting his leadership style. Based on reports he has received, several ministers and senior officials have experienced exhaustion and needed medical treatment.
"Some of my ministers faint in public. And sometimes I receive reports that a few of my senior officials are being treated in the hospital. Why? Heart problems," said Prabowo.
He then added, "So I feel guilty, perhaps because their boss is too controlling of the details of their work."
Furthermore, when speaking at the forum, Prabowo also emphasized his government's commitment to maintaining the trust of foreign investors. He boasted about Indonesia's reputation, stating that it has never defaulted on its debt throughout history.
According to Prabowo, this reputation is an asset for Indonesia when it comes to attracting investment amid global uncertainty. Our reputation is very clear; it's not a 5, 10, or 15-year reputation. For decades, Indonesia has been known to have never defaulted, not once in the history of the Republic of Indonesia," he said.
In addition, Prabowo urged Japanese entrepreneurs to report directly to him if they encounter problems while doing business in Indonesia. According to him, Japanese entrepreneurs can lodge complaints directly with him or through intermediaries, such as embassies or business association representatives. "I am willing to receive complaints," said the Chairperson of the Gerindra Party.
Prabowo stated that the government has also formed a task force dedicated to removing investment barriers or de-bottlenecking task force. This task force is responsible for handling business issues, including administrative delays and practices detrimental to investors.
Prabowo mentioned that any company, whether foreign or domestic, can report to this task force. "Those who feel they are facing delays, administrative obstacles, and so on, or are subject to exploitation or unfair treatment, can directly contact this barrier removal task force," he said.
Sultan Abdurrahman contributed to the writing of this article
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