Prabowo Claims He Listens to Public Input on TikTok

Prabowo Claims He Listens to Public Input on TikTok

Tempatdonasi.com – In Jakarta, Tempo.CO reported that President Prabowo Subianto highlighted his engagement with public input through social media platforms. During his closing remarks at the Science, Technology, and Industry Convention, held at the Jakarta Convention Center on Sunday, June 28, 2026, he emphasized how digital tools like TikTok allow him to stay connected with citizens. The convention, which drew thousands of academic professionals, included university rectors, deans, and professors from across Indonesia, gathering to discuss advancements in science and industry.

A Bridge Between Leaders and Citizens

Prabowo, who serves as the leader of the Gerindra Party, shared insights during his speech about the growing role of social media in shaping policy. He noted that his administration has actively integrated feedback from various sources, including TikTok, into its decision-making processes. “I have received a list of proposals and questions that were quite numerous,” he said, underscoring his commitment to addressing citizen concerns. The President assured the audience that each input would be carefully considered, reflecting a broader effort to modernize governance and foster public participation.

“I promise to give each one my full attention,” Prabowo stated, illustrating his dedication to incorporating diverse perspectives. His remarks highlighted a shift in how leaders engage with the public, leveraging platforms like TikTok to reach communities that may otherwise feel disconnected from the political process.

Prabowo also pointed out that technology enables the president to respond swiftly to local challenges. He acknowledged that issues arising in remote villages can now be brought to the national stage, allowing the government to act promptly. “The difficulties faced by a village in Nias were addressed promptly,” he remarked, though he declined to provide specific details about the incident. This example underscored his belief in the power of social media to bridge the gap between policymakers and grassroots concerns.

A Dynamic Approach to Policy-Making

According to Prabowo, his administration has embraced a more interactive model of governance, where public opinion is not just heard but actively integrated. He emphasized that suggestions from anyone—whether from professors or children in rural areas—hold equal weight in shaping national priorities. “Not only suggestions from professors, but also input from children in the villages that reach me through TikTok,” he added, showcasing his willingness to engage with all segments of society.

“I will immediately follow up,” Prabowo said, demonstrating his hands-on approach to addressing feedback. His remarks illustrated a blend of traditional authority and contemporary outreach, positioning him as a leader who values both expert analysis and everyday voices.

Prabowo’s reliance on technology was a recurring theme throughout his address. He praised the advancements that facilitate rapid communication, allowing him to grasp the complexities of daily life for citizens. “Modern technological advancements have made it possible for the head of state to quickly understand the problems faced by people,” he explained. This perspective aligns with his broader vision of utilizing innovation to enhance governance and public trust.

The Science, Technology, and Industry Convention

The Science, Technology, and Industry Convention (KSTI), attended by Prabowo, spanned three days from June 26 to June 28, 2026. The event marked his active involvement in both the opening and closing sessions, with an estimated 2,600 educators present. Prabowo’s participation underscored the significance of the convention as a platform for fostering collaboration between academia and the government.

Last Friday, during the opening of KSTI 2026, the president delivered a nearly five-hour lecture to the academic community. This lengthy address was followed by his four-hour closing speech on Sunday, which focused on the practical applications of technology in addressing public needs. The forum, titled “National Symposium,” was organized under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, as part of the larger Indonesian Science, Technology, and Industry Convention.

Prabowo’s involvement in KSTI 2026 also marked the event’s debut as a signature initiative of his administration. Launched at the Bandung Institute of Technology in August 2025, the convention has since evolved into a key mechanism for integrating scientific expertise into national policymaking. By attending both the opening and closing ceremonies, he reinforced his commitment to the event’s goals and the importance of bridging academic research with real-world challenges.

Engaging the Masses Through Innovation

During his speech, Prabowo reiterated his appreciation for the role of social media in amplifying public discourse. He described TikTok as a vital tool for capturing the voices of citizens, particularly those from less urbanized regions. “The ability to receive input from even the youngest members of society is a testament to the reach of digital platforms,” he remarked, highlighting the inclusivity of his approach.

The former Minister of Defense, in his address, stressed the transformative impact of technology on governance. He argued that social media not only democratizes information but also ensures that the government remains responsive to evolving societal needs. “Difficulties in a village can now reach the highest levels of government and be resolved swiftly,” he noted, citing the Nias Regency case as proof of this efficiency.

“The difficulties faced by a village in Nias were addressed promptly,” Prabowo remarked, though he stopped short of providing detailed specifics about the incident. This statement exemplified his strategy of using technology to create a more agile and accessible system of governance.

Prabowo’s ability to multitask across different mediums—from traditional policy discussions to digital engagement—has become a defining aspect of his leadership style. By integrating TikTok into his administrative workflow, he has demonstrated an openness to modernizing communication methods. “I have always believed that governance must evolve with the times,” he said, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in public service.

Reinforcing Public Trust Through Transparency

The KSTI convention served as a platform for Prabowo to showcase his administration’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity. He framed his approach as a way to ensure that all citizens, regardless of background or location, have a say in shaping the nation’s future. “By listening to input from diverse sources, we can build a more equitable society,” he stated, drawing parallels between the convention’s academic focus and the everyday concerns of the public.

Prabowo’s emphasis on TikTok also reflected his recognition of the platform’s unique ability to connect with younger generations. He noted that the digital landscape has changed how people communicate, making it essential for leaders to adapt. “Social media is not just a tool for entertainment but a channel for meaningful dialogue,” he explained, pointing to the potential of platforms like TikTok to foster civic engagement.

As the convention concluded, Prabowo’s closing remarks resonated with the audience, reinforcing his vision of a technologically empowered presidency. His presence at both the opening and closing sessions symbolized his dedication to the event’s mission of bridging the gap between scientific innovation and public needs. The KSTI initiative, now in its second year, continues to gain traction as a model for integrating citizen feedback into national development strategies.

Prabowo’s speech also touched on the challenges of maintaining public trust in an era of rapid information dissemination. He acknowledged the need for leaders to be accessible and responsive, a principle he believes TikTok embodies. “The ability to reach people directly through social media strengthens our connection with the public,” he said, setting the stage for a more interactive form of governance.

With the convention now in the rearview, the focus shifts to implementing the ideas discussed. Prabowo’s approach of blending traditional policy-making with digital engagement has sparked conversations about the future of leadership in Indonesia. As the nation continues to embrace technology, his administration’s use of platforms like TikTok may serve as a blueprint for other leaders seeking to modernize their communication strategies