JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – President Prabowo Subianto expressed strong optimism that Indonesia could achieve an economic growth rate of 8% during his administration. Speaking at the closing of the National Consolidation Meeting of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Jakarta on January 16, 2025, he even hinted at the possibility of surpassing this target.

Although his presidency has only spanned three months so far, Prabowo exuded confidence in his administration’s ability to deliver significant results. He urged business leaders to be patient as his government worked toward realizing its ambitious economic goals.

Prabowo credited his optimism to the capable ministers in his cabinet. He highlighted the progress made in understanding and addressing the nation’s economic challenges, assuring that major breakthroughs would be seen in the coming weeks and months.

Addressing skepticism from some circles, Prabowo criticized the lack of confidence among certain elites regarding the 8% growth target. He argued that this pessimism stemmed from a colonial-era mindset that continues to influence how some leaders perceive Indonesia’s potential.

He emphasized the need for unity and confidence to achieve this ambitious goal. Prabowo called on Indonesians, particularly those in the business sector, to work together and adopt a more positive outlook to overcome challenges and drive progress.

The president reflected on Indonesia’s colonial past, suggesting that it had instilled a sense of inferiority in some leaders. He encouraged the nation’s elites to shed this mindset and embrace bold ambitions to propel the country forward.