Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto on Thursday rejected what he described as foreign perceptions that underestimate Indonesia's capabilities, while ordering developers of the $20.95 billion Abadi Masela liquefied natural gas (LNG) project to prioritize local workers and businesses.

Speaking virtually at the groundbreaking ceremony for the long-delayed national strategic project, Prabowo said Indonesia should no longer be viewed as a weak or incapable nation.

"Perhaps because Indonesians are friendly, some people think we are weak. They say Indonesians are relaxed or lazy," Prabowo said. "They do not see our fishermen, farmers, and workers who leave home before dawn and return after dark."

He said Indonesia remains open to cooperation with all countries but expects international partners to recognize that the country has matured and is led by capable decision-makers.

"Indonesia is now a mature nation. Our leaders are not naive, not foolish, and not afraid," he said.

Prabowo made the remarks as the government officially launched construction of the Abadi Masela LNG project, one of Indonesia's largest energy investments, which has been in development for nearly three decades.

The president said the project must generate tangible benefits for Indonesians, particularly communities in Maluku's Tanimbar Islands, where the offshore gas field is located.

He instructed the sovereign wealth fund Danantara, state energy company Pertamina, and other state-owned enterprises to provide technical training for local residents and help local businesses participate in the project.

"If local entrepreneurs or workers still lack the necessary skills, they should be assisted. There must be affirmative action," Prabowo said.

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said local residents from the Tanimbar Islands and other parts of Maluku would be prioritized for recruitment. Some students from the region have already been sent to the Energy and Mineral Polytechnic in Cepu for training before joining the project.

Operated by Japan's INPEX Masela Ltd, with Pertamina Hulu Energi and Malaysia's Petronas as partners, the project is expected to produce 9.5 million tons of LNG annually, along with 35,000 barrels of condensate per day.

The project is expected to create around 12,000 direct construction jobs and employ up to 1,000 workers during operations, while generating more than $44 billion in state revenue over its lifetime, according to the Energy Ministry.

Prabowo also praised INPEX for its long-term commitment to the project, saying Indonesia welcomes foreign investment based on mutually beneficial partnerships.

"We want our partners to earn a fair return, but we also have a responsibility to ensure Indonesia's natural resources bring prosperity to our people," he said.