Ervana Trikarinaputri, Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto urged students at Indonesia's People's Schools not to be discouraged when facing mockery or bullying from others, saying even a president is not spared from criticism.

He shared the message during a visit to SRMP 17 Tabanan, a junior high school under the People's School program, in Bali on Sunday, June 7, 2026.

"Not just you, even I am often mocked. Even as president, I still get mocked. That's fine. What matters is that your heart stays strong and kind," Prabowo said, as broadcast on the Presidential Secretariat's YouTube channel.

The former defense minister in the Joko Widodo administration said the right response to ridicule is to remain polite and resilient.

"The more you are insulted, the more steadfast you should become, the braver you should be, and the more polite you should remain. When insulted, stay polite. Do not lose heart," he said.

Prabowo delivered the remarks after hearing a student, Gede Bagus Abimanyu, describe being frequently mocked by classmates during elementary school.

He also told students that economic hardship is not a barrier to success, noting that many successful Indonesians come from poor families but managed to change their lives through perseverance.

"Many successful people come from very poor families. There are so many. But they did not give up, they did not lose hope, and they stayed cheerful," he said.

"In times of difficulty, look for the good. Good things will surely come," he added.

Prabowo also encouraged students to study hard, maintain discipline, respect teachers, and live harmoniously with others.

"Do not hate others. Live well and in harmony. That is the key to success," he said.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2107305/prabowo-on-students-being-bullied-even-i-get-mocked-as-presiden