Magelang — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has spoken about the formative role his father, Soemitro Djojohadikoesoemo, played in shaping his character, particularly during his early years in activism alongside Soe Hok Gie in 1968.

“When I was young, I joined with several youth activists to establish a development organization. I’ve always been concerned about the hardships faced by people in rural areas. I think that concern stemmed from the atmosphere of the time and, of course, my parents’ influence,” Prabowo stated in an exclusive interview titled “Prabowo Speaks with Retno Pinasti,” quoted on Monday (October 28).

Prabowo shared that his father’s influence was profound, with Soemitro often engaging him in discussions that were rich in life lessons and values.

“He would take any opportunity to discuss things, to perhaps instill values, share his experiences, and pass on his ideas. I absorbed a lot from listening to him,” Prabowo recounted.

He went on to describe Soemitro’s reputation for intelligence, noting that even during the Dutch colonial period, his father excelled academically and surpassed many Dutch students in school.

“My father wasn’t just a professor and educator; he was a political leader, an incredibly idealistic person. He was far smarter than I am. He was well-known back then, even during the Dutch colonial era, for outperforming Dutch students in school,” Prabowo reflected.

Throughout his public appearances and speeches, Prabowo often shares memories of his father. For instance, in April 2024, while addressing graduates at the University of Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) in BSD Serpong, Tangerang, he recalled a principle his father had imparted to him: that in any position or role, he must always stand for the common people. This is a value Prabowo strives to uphold to this day. (RR)