Communication Observer Says President Prabowo’s First Speech Gained Public Sympathy and Optimism

Jakarta – The inauguration of the President and Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia for the 2024-2029 period was an important moment marked by President Prabowo Subianto’s first speech. The speech delivered at the MPR/DPR Building, Sunday (20/10), received appreciation from various groups, including from the Political Communication Observer of Airlangga University (Unair), Suko Widodo. According to him, President Prabowo’s communication style in the speech was able to arouse the enthusiasm and spirit of the Indonesian people.

Suko assessed that Prabowo succeeded in attracting public sympathy with his open acknowledgement of various problems faced by the nation, such as corruption among officials, poverty, and global geopolitical challenges. “Mr. Prabowo’s acknowledgement of the conditions of poverty and corruption shows honesty. This is good, because with a straightforward attitude, without covering it up, the public becomes sympathetic,” said Suko.

Furthermore, Suko explained that Prabowo’s way of conveying the facts in a straightforward and accommodating military style strengthened his closeness to the public. “By conveying the facts as he mentioned, Mr. Prabowo builds proximity or closeness to what the public thinks. That is a good way to seek sympathy and support from the public,” he added.

Prabowo’s speech, which was delivered in a firm yet hopeful language, created enthusiasm among the public.

“We have abundant natural resources, and with these gifts, we must be optimistic about facing the future. However, we must also dare to see the challenges, obstacles, and threats that lie ahead of us,” said President Prabowo.

President Prabowo invited all parties, including political leaders, intellectuals, businessmen, and the general public to work together to find solutions to the nation’s problems. “I invite all of us to gather, to unite to find solutions to the threats and dangers that exist,” he said.

In addition, President Prabowo emphasized the importance of food and energy self-sufficiency to ensure the nation’s independence. “In the shortest possible time, Indonesia must be able to achieve food and energy security,” he said optimistically.

A similar statement was also conveyed by the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) that President Prabowo Subianto offered many hopes in his first speech on a number of national and international strategic issues.

“There are many things that are hoped for including food security, energy security, foreign policy alignments, where we remain anti-colonial and defend Palestine,” said MUI Chairman for Da’wah and Ukhuwah Cholil Nafis.

Prabowo Subianto, who was accompanied by Gibran Rakabuming Raka as Vice President, was officially inaugurated on the same day after winning the 2024 Presidential Election by winning 96.21 million votes or 58.59 percent of the total votes cast. This inauguration is the beginning of a new leadership that is expected to bring positive change to the nation.