Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto Flags Corruption Concerns and Launches Elephant Conservation Funding Drive

President Prabowo Subianto said the growing number of regional leaders implicated in corruption cases must be taken seriously in Indonesia's long‑term development plans. A Saiful Mujani Research and Consulting survey showed his public approval fell sharply from 81.2% in November 2025 to 51.1% in July 2026, driven by economic pressures, worsening perceptions of law enforcement and political dynamics.

In response, Prabowo ordered the creation of the National Park Management Financing Innovation Task Force, led by his brother Hashim Djojohadikusumo, to secure new funding for conservation. The task force follows Presidential Decree No. 8/2026 and a subsequent Presidential Instruction No. 8/2026 that directs nine ministries, the National Police chief and regional leaders to protect Sumatran and Bornean elephant populations and their habitats. Deputy ministers met on 18 February 2026 to implement these directives and explore financing options for the protected areas.