KUCHING, Dec 27: As Joko Widodo, popularly known as ‘Jokowi’, concludes his term in 2024, Indonesians are poised to deeply miss the leadership of one of the most remarkable presidents the country ever had, who has earned a reputation as “nga ada tanding nya” (no one can match up to him in Iban).
Assuming office in 2014, Jokowi, constitutionally restricted from pursuing a third term, has played a pivotal role in propelling Indonesia forward.
Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy, is gearing up for the monumental task of conducting the planet’s most extensive one-day election on Feb 14, 2024 to elect the country’s next president and vice president, as well as legislators and councillors at both national and regional levels.
Political pundit Dato Peter Minos highlighted Indonesia’s significant progress under Jokowi, be it in political maturity, economic development, or international standing.
He emphasised that Jokowi’s enduring humility, untarnished image, and strong connection with the people have left an indelible mark.
Reflecting on his interactions in Sarawak, Minos noted the widespread admiration for Jokowi among Indonesians who expressed their respect for his leadership.
“Under Jokowi’s stewardship, Indonesia’s economy has thrived, with predictions that it could emerge as an economic superpower by 2050. Just look at how modern and advanced Jakarta, Jogjakarta and Surabaya is today.
“The people are creative and full of grit, working well in a politically stable environment. The Indonesians described this as ‘political peace creating economic uprising’,” he said in a statement today.
Commending Jokowi’s adept, wise and pragmatic diplomacy, Minos pointed out that the world has noticed the rising of Indonesia, a political giant in the making at the global stage.
Applauding Jokowi’s initiatives which have the full backing and appreciation of its people, Minos, who is also Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman, mentioned the setting up of the nation’s new capital Nusantara, Indonesia’s first high-speed railway linking Jakarta to Bandung, the extensive infrastructure development such as highways and roads as well as new ports and airports, and the thriving manufacturing and agricultural industries.
“Terbaik sekali bapak Joko,” he said, in echoing the sentiment of many Indonesians.
According to Nikkei Asia, it was reported that the Indonesia’s Election Commission has on Nov 14 approved all three presidential candidates for next February’s election, including Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto; Ganjar Pranowo, the former governor of Central Java; and Anies Baswedan, the former governor of Jakarta.
Their respective running mates for the vice presidency are Gibran Rakabuming (Jokowi’s son), Mohammad Mahfud MD and Muhaimin Iskandar. — DayakDaily
