President Joko Widodo’s successor and current President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, delivered a critique of neoliberal economic theory during his speech at the 27th anniversary of the National Awakening Party (PKB). He challenged the idea that wealth concentrated at the top will eventually benefit the wider population, labeling it as a myth that has not materialized. Prabowo emphasized the importance of Article 33 of the Constitution, highlighting the goal of the state to ensure the prosperity and well-being of its people. He noted that democratic ideals are essential but meaningless if citizens continue to face basic hardships like poverty and hunger. By referencing the Preamble of the 1945 Constitution, Prabowo underscored the spirit of Article 33 which advocates for an economy based on mutual cooperation and familial solidarity rather than corporate dominance. He criticized neoliberalism for justifying inequality and rejected the belief in trickle-down economics, stating that the wealth does not trickle down effectively. Prabowo’s stance reflects his commitment to a people-centered economy that serves all citizens, not just the elite.
Prabowo Critiques Neoliberal Economics: No Trickle Down in 200 Years
