“I have studied the issue. There is no problem. I will take responsibility for all of Whoosh’s project debt,” President Prabowo said during a visit to Tanah Abang Station in Jakarta on Tuesday.
He said the government has thoroughly reviewed all matters related to the project’s debt and assured that there is nothing to be concerned about.
According to the President, public transportation projects like Whoosh should not be assessed solely based on financial profit or loss but on the broader benefits they provide to the public.
He noted that the financing scheme for public transportation in many countries is generally part of a public service obligation.
Prabowo pointed out that most national railway services are subsidized by governments to ensure affordability for the public, emphasizing that such subsidies represent the state’s presence through the responsible use of public funds, whether from taxes or state assets.
During his remarks, the President also underscored the importance of integrity in managing state finances, stressing that public money must never be misused and should always serve the people’s interests.
Prabowo urged the public not to politicize the Whoosh project and to remain calm, asserting that Indonesia’s economy is strong enough to support such strategic initiatives.
“So, don’t worry. I say this to everyone — I have studied the issue. Indonesia is capable, and everything is reasonable. Don’t politicize it. Don’t let us dance to someone else’s tune. There may be parties, from who knows where, trying to create public anxiety. No, just stay calm. Our nation is strong, our nation is rich,” he said.
The Head of State also reminded his administration to remain vigilant, not to be deceived, and to prevent any misuse of the nation’s wealth.
“I will not hesitate. Together with my team, we will prove that we will save, protect, and manage all sources of wealth and return them for the people’s prosperity,” the President stated.
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Translator: Fathur Rochman, Kuntum Khaira
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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