Two years into his presidency, Indonesian leader Prabowo Subianto is navigating a period of economic turbulence that has challenged the expectations of his voter base. Many Indonesians, particularly those who supported him during the 2024 election, expressed a desire for a return to the perceived stability and affordability associated with the era of former leader Suharto. Voters like 35-year-old Ika Kartika, a resident of Bekasi, had hoped that Prabowo’s administration would restore predictable living costs and economic order.

However, the reality of the current administration has been marked by rising food prices, which have placed significant pressure on household budgets. While supporters initially viewed Prabowo as a figure capable of providing the order and security they associated with the past, the ongoing inflationary environment has created a disconnect between campaign promises and the daily economic experience of citizens. The administration now faces the difficult task of managing these growing pains while attempting to maintain the support of a public that is increasingly concerned about the affordability of everyday essentials. The situation highlights the broader challenge of balancing the nostalgia for past stability with the complex economic realities of modern Indonesia.