President Jokowi Inaugurates Surakarta’s Rehabilitated Jongke Market

President Joko Widodo and First Lady Iriana inaugurate the rehabilitated Jongke market in Surakarta City, Central Java province, Saturday (07/27). (Photo by: Bureau of Press, Media, and Information of Presidential Secretariat/Hires)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and First Lady Iriana Saturday (07/27) inaugurated the rehabilitated Jongke traditional market in Surakarta city, Central Java province.

The 29,000 square meter – Jongke market has been rehabilitated with a budget amounting to Rp124 billion.

“Bismillahirrahmanirrahim, today I inaugurate the rehabilitated Jongke market which has a total area of 29,000 square meters and spent a budget of Rp124 billion in Surakarta city, Central Java province,” President Jokowi said.

According to the President, the market is a center of people’s economy where farmers, fishermen, and craftsmen can sell their products or commodities.

The President also admitted he was impressed by the improved facilities in the market.

“Maybe some can tell me the difference between the old Jongke market and the newly rehabilitated Jongke market? Anyone who came here before the rehabilitation? Is it better now? I am also surprised to see this market which I think is better than a mall,” he said.

Beside the market’s trade area, the parking area has also been upgraded to make the sellers and the buyers more comfortable.

The President also reminded the people to keep the market clean.

“Most importantly, I want the people to keep the market clean, hygienic, and not to make it dirty and smell bad. When I came inside, I could see that it is managed very well,” he said. (FID/ABD) (AW/EP)