August 9, 2026 | 10:59 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto holds the view that individuals who have never experienced hardship or suffering cannot become leaders. In his opinion, character formation requires overcoming obstacles and hurdles.
The Head of State made these remarks during the 50th birthday celebration of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia—which also marked the launch of Bahlil’s book—at the Djakarta Theater in Jakarta on Friday, August 7, 2026.
"It is safe to say that those who do not face obstacles, difficulties, or suffering—it is safe to say they do not become leaders. That is the reality," Prabowo stated on Friday, as cited in a written release from the Indonesian Government Communication Agency.
Furthermore, the Chairman of the Gerindra Party emphasized that courage is an essential trait for a leader. However, he noted that courage must be underpinned by virtues and empathy.
"Courage without virtue might produce a leader, but perhaps one who is reckless or unwise—a leader who ultimately endangers those they lead," Prabowo said.
He remarked that leadership spirit is not a gift that can be easily acquired. "Leadership is earned through hard work, attitude, and the values inherent in an individual," he said.
On that occasion, the former Defense Minister from President Joko Widodo’s administration recounted his time leading the Indonesian Army’s special forces. He claimed that his leadership experience gave him the ability to assess a person based on even a brief interaction.
"From a young age—starting with the first 30 people I commanded—and even back at the Academy, we dealt with people, so we learned to observe them. We can pick up on what might be called a 'vibe,' instinct, or chemistry. We can make an assessment based on just two or three sentences, a conversation, or a response," Prabowo said.
Consequently, he underscored the importance of preparing future generations to possess the resilience needed to face international competition. Prabowo does not want Indonesia’s next generation to be prone to giving up or complaining. "Will our future generations be strong enough to face the increasingly fierce competition among nations? Or will they easily give up, complain, and ask for help?" said Prabowo.
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