Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto on Monday urged Indonesians to remain grateful for the country’s peace and unity, saying Indonesia has managed to stay relatively stable despite a world increasingly marked by war, conflict and uncertainty.

Speaking at the National Christmas Celebration 2025 at the Indoor Tennis Stadium in Senayan,  Jakarta, Prabowo said global conditions remain volatile, with conflicts erupting in various regions, but Indonesia’s ability to maintain harmony is something the nation should value and protect.

“In a world full of uncertainty and turmoil, with wars happening in many places, we should be grateful that our nation remains in a peaceful condition,” Prabowo said in remarks broadcast online by the Presidential Secretariat.

The president also addressed criticism directed at his leadership, including allegations that he seeks to revive militarism in Indonesia. Prabowo said such criticism is not only legitimate but necessary in a democracy, as it forces leaders to reflect and evaluate their decisions.

“When people accuse me of wanting to bring back militarism, I correct myself. We examine whether it is true, consult legal experts and look for the limits, including where leadership could become too authoritarian,” he said.

Prabowo stressed that he welcomes criticism and sees it as a form of protection rather than a threat. While admitting that criticism can be uncomfortable, he said it helps leaders avoid mistakes and maintain accountability.

“Democracy is fine, criticism is good, correction is necessary — but slander is not,” he said.

Prabowo warned that false accusations and disinformation could damage social cohesion and weaken the foundations of democracy. He added that all religions practiced in Indonesia condemn lies and slander, citing Christian teachings against dishonesty and Islamic teachings that describe slander as more destructive than violence.

The president concluded by calling on Indonesians to distinguish between constructive criticism and harmful falsehoods, saying democracy will only remain strong if upheld with honesty, responsibility and national unity.

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