Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia after Attending the Environment-Climate-Forestry-Energy Festival 2 at the Jakarta Convention Center, Special Capital Region of Jakarta, August 9, 2024

Journalist
Sir, regarding the event. Many studies say that air pollution and nickel downstreaming will cause potential state losses of up to Rp40 trillion in 2025. What is the Government’s anticipation for such problem by then?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Well, I’d like to appreciate and value the community’s concern, both from groups and individuals, on matters related to protecting the environment and overcoming the impacts of climate change since it cannot be done by the Government or even one country alone. In fact, all countries must do it.

Everything requires a collective effort from the people and the Government to realize a sustainable earth. And, if we cannot protect the environment so the environment is not maintained, it will soon affect our quality of life, be it illness, drought, or food shortages. I think that is what we should all pay attention to.

And, the sector that puts the most pressure on the environment is the energy sector, mining. The big ones are there and also from the forestry sector. The forestry and energy sectors provide us. If we mismanage, the sectors would put great pressure on our environment. I always say all mining industries must establish a nursery. Environmental restoration and forest rehabilitation have become the concerns of Ministry of the Environment and Forestry.

Journalist
Regarding the Olympiad, Sir. Right now, we have obtained two golds and one bronze.

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Well, I am very happy and proud. I think the people are also happy with the gold medals won by Veddriq Leonardo in rock climbing and Rizki Juliansyah in weightlifting. The country appreciates it; the people are also very proud of the gold medals.

Journalist
Sir, the last time Indonesia won two golds was in Barcelona ’92. Is there a special prize, perhaps a bonus?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I just found out this morning. We will discuss it first. There will definitely be a bonus.

Journalist
Some say the budget for this year’s national independence commemoration has skyrocketed, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
We are used to commemorating it in one place, but now there is a transition, in two places. Nevertheless, it is not a leap. I think the budget (inaudible) is normal, reasonable, and the funds have also been prepared at Ministry of State Secretariat. (GWH/EP)