Jakarta – Presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto has adopted a comprehensive approach to the nation's defense and security issues, extending beyond conventional military strategies, according to a spokesman for his campaign on Saturday.
As a former army general, Prabowo understands that aspects such as food and energy security are equally pivotal to national defense, signaling a departure from purely military-centric viewpoints.
"Broadening the scope of national security, Prabowo and his running mate Gibran [Rakabuming Raka] recognize the importance of self-sufficiency in both food and energy," said Budisatrio Djiwandono, the campaign spokesman.
His remarks came ahead of the third presidential debate focused on defense, geopolitics, and foreign policies scheduled for Sunday evening.
"In the discussion of national security, the significance of achieving self-reliance in food and energy should not be underestimated. Prabowo and Gibran have articulated strategies to minimize dependence on imported food and energy resources," Budisatrio said.
Key initiatives include the modernization of the agricultural sector and rejuvenation of existing agricultural programs, utilizing dormant lands for cultivation purposes.
Moreover, Prabowo and Gibran aim to open up at least 4 million hectares of new agricultural lands to cultivate essential crops such as rice, corn, soybean, sugarcane, and cassava.
On the energy front, their plan involves an escalation in biodiesel and bioethanol production, along with the development of renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal power.
As the current defense minister, Prabowo's profound understanding of global geopolitical dynamics positions him uniquely to address contemporary security challenges, said Habiburokhman, the campaign team's deputy chairman.
During the forthcoming debate, Prabowo is expected to present comprehensive strategies derived from his extensive experience in the military and his tenure as the defense minister, added Habiburokhman.
Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/prabowo-includes-selfreliance-in-food-energy-into-defense-strategie