Ichsan Ali, Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto said on Wednesday that he often spends his nights watching podcasts that contain false accusations and harsh criticism about him, describing the experience as a lesson in humility and leadership rather than a source of resentment.
Speaking at a National Police event in Jakarta where 214.84 tons of seized narcotics were destroyed, Prabowo admitted that while the online attacks sometimes irritate him, he chooses to see them as opportunities to strengthen his resolve.
"I like to watch podcasts at night, sometimes I get upset, wondering, 'What is this?'" the former general said. "But I take notes. When I'm attacked, I tell the younger generation who aspire to become presidents: don't be afraid of slander."
He recalled being falsely accused earlier in his life and said his teacher had taught him to interpret criticism as a sign that people are paying attention, or even feeling threatened. "When you're slandered, it means people notice you," he said. "To those who want to be president, that's good, but be the right kind of president. Don't fear correction."
The president, who also chairs the Gerindra Party, said he is aware of recurring online claims labeling him as authoritarian, a charge he rejected. "I watch those podcasts and ask myself, 'Am I really authoritarian?' I don't think so," he said with a smile.
Prabowo emphasized that leaders must not let bitterness guide their actions. "Criticism is good. But in serving the nation, we must not be driven by anger or resentment," he said.
Despite his efforts to downplay criticism, Prabowo's administration has faced growing scrutiny. His flagship Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program, designed to provide meals for 80 million students and pregnant women, has been criticized as a budgetary burden amid economic hardships. The program drew renewed criticism after over 6,000 children reportedly suffered food poisoning, raising questions about the government's preparedness.
Prabowo's "Red and White Cabinet" has also been accused of being bloated, with some observers describing it as an exercise in political accommodation rather than efficiency.
A recent study by the Center of Economic and Law Studies (Celios) found that of 976 respondents who voted for Prabowo-Gibran in the 2024 election, only 643 said they would do so again after observing the administration's first-year performance, a 34 percent decline. Celios attributed the drop to dissatisfaction over economic performance, governance, and law enforcement.
However, the president continues to enjoy broad public support. A survey by Lingkaran Survei Indonesia (LSI) Denny JA released in October 2025 showed that public satisfaction with Prabowo's performance stood at 74.8 percent, down slightly from earlier in the year but still strong.
"Although the satisfaction rate has declined compared to January and June 2025, remaining above 70 percent is a positive signal for the government," LSI Executive Director Adjie Alfarabi said during a virtual press conference. Around 22.8 percent of respondents said they were dissatisfied or less satisfied with the government's performance, he added.