Bogor — President Prabowo Subianto issued a stern warning to public officials responsible for the education sector during his speech commemorating National Education Day at SDN Cimahpar 5 in Bogor, West Java, on Thursday (May 2).

He emphasized the need for honesty and accountability in managing the country’s massive education budget, which he said has yet to produce significant on-the-ground results.

“Let’s be vigilant and honest with ourselves: has the education budget—so large for so many years—truly reached its intended targets?” Prabowo questioned.

He highlighted the persistent reality of under-equipped schools across Indonesia, despite the substantial funding allocated through the state budget. Citing examples he found during field visits, he expressed disbelief at the conditions.

“If we’re being completely transparent, the funds are there. So how is it possible that a school only has one toilet? How can that happen?” he asked.

Prabowo explained that while the central government has set aside nearly IDR 17 trillion (approximately USD 1 billion) for school renovations, that amount only covers improvements for around 11,000 schools—far short of the country’s 330,000 educational institutions.

“I did allocate what I thought was a significant budget for school repairs, but it’s not enough. Nearly IDR 17 trillion—yet that only covers about 11,000 schools. It’s far from sufficient. We have 330,000 schools across Indonesia,” he said.

He called on all stakeholders, especially local governments, to ensure that education funds are properly used to upgrade school facilities.

“I remind all local governments—mayors, regents, governors—this is a shared responsibility,” Prabowo asserted.

He also stressed that the key to transforming education isn’t just about funding but about implementing clean and people-centered governance.

“I repeatedly urge all levels of government, all officials and bureaucrats: serve the people. You are appointed, funded, and paid by the state. So public funds—intended for public service—must not be misused. Don’t corrupt them by any means,” he warned.

Prabowo affirmed that education is the cornerstone of the nation’s future. With rational, people-oriented financial management, he believes every school in Indonesia can be upgraded.

“If we manage things wisely, using common sense, ensuring every fund is truly used for the benefit of the people—I believe we can improve every school in Indonesia. That is our target,” he said.

“We cannot afford to fall behind. We are a rich nation. It is unacceptable to let our wealth go to waste. We become a foolish nation if we can’t protect and control our own resources for the benefit of all Indonesians. That is the mission of my administration.”