Daftarsbmptn.com – The former 6th President of the Republic of Indonesia, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), publicly expressed his support for President Prabowo Subianto’s administration to achieve a national economic growth target of at least 6 percent in the next few years. This statement was delivered in a scientific speech at the peak event of the 65th Anniversary of the Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS) Surabaya, Tuesday (November 11, 2025).
Content of SBY’s Statement
In his remarks, SBY emphasized that the Indonesian economy must grow continuously at an adequate rate, and that 6 percent is a realistic “minimum” to maintain people’s purchasing power, reduce unemployment, and strengthen welfare.
Furthermore, SBY stated that the Prabowo administration’s policy direction has the right intentions and objectives, stating, “I support President Prabowo’s various agendas because I know his intentions are right, his goals are right, and his direction is right.”
However, SBY also noted that economic growth is not just about large numbers; it must be fair, sustainable, and take environmental sustainability and equity into account. He warned that while an open and competitive economic system can increase efficiency, it can also increase social inequality if not accompanied by appropriate policies.
Economic and Policy Context
SBY’s statement came amidst a challenging economic backdrop: although Indonesia has great potential, several indicators, such as household consumption and investment, have not grown as fast as expected. SBY emphasized that achieving the 6 percent target requires strong synergy between the government, the business world, academia, and the public.
In terms of policy, the current government has established a development orientation that includes accelerated investment, digital transformation, and green economy development. SBY emphasized that these green policies are crucial as part of sustainable growth and responsibility for climate change.
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Implications of SBY’s Support
SBY’s support for the Prabowo administration has several important implications:
- Political consolidation: With the former president providing open support, this could strengthen the political stability necessary for a favorable investment climate.
- Legitimacy of the economic target: SBY’s statement confirms that the 6 percent target is not just talk, but something considered realistic by senior national figures.
- Message to economic actors: Businesses, investors, and stakeholders receive a signal that the government and political elite share a shared commitment to growth and equity.
- Warning about inequality: While ambitious targets are being touted, the focus on equity and environmental aspects demonstrates that growth based on “mere numbers” is not enough.
Challenges to be Faced
While strong support is readily available, several challenges must be overcome to achieve the 6 percent target:
- Increasing private investment and exports. SBY recalled that in the past, elements such as consumption, investment, and exports were the main contributors to growth.
State Secretariat - Controlling inequality and poverty. High growth enjoyed only by a small segment of society will not be enough to maintain social stability.
- Creating cross-sector synergy. SBY emphasized that the government, private sector, academia, and civil society must be “in the same boat.”
Olenka - Maintaining environmental sustainability. Growth targets must be accompanied by environmentally friendly policies to avoid sacrificing the future of future generations.
- Policy implementation management. SBY mentioned that the intention was correct, “it just depends on how to incorporate it into the management system to achieve optimal results.”
Reactions to SBY’s Statement
Some welcomed SBY’s move as a strong signal that the political elite supports quality economic growth. However, some analysts also highlighted that the 6 percent target is not without risks: that it will be difficult to achieve if global conditions worsen (e.g., trade wars, energy crises), or if domestic conditions, such as government and private sector spending, are not balanced, as was the case in previous eras.
Conclusion
SBY’s statement expressing support for the Prabowo administration’s goal of achieving economic growth of at least 6 percent represents a significant milestone. He not only provided political support but also emphasized that growth must be accompanied by social justice and environmental sustainability. While SBY believes this target is realistic, its success will depend heavily on effective policy implementation, cross-sector coordination, and preparedness to address domestic and global challenges.
Therefore, the government, the private sector, and all levels of society have a crucial role to play in realizing this vision so that not only the 6 percent figure is achieved, but growth that is meaningful, equitable, and sustainable for all Indonesians.