Criticism, Harsh Statements Cannot Solve Rohingya Conflict, President Jokowi Says

President Jokowi meets a number of ulama (Muslim scholars) of Central Java, at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday (13/9)

The Government of Indonesia has urged the Government of Myanmar to provide explanation regarding the ongoing conflict in Rakhine State, Myanmar. The Government has also sent 10 containers of humanitarian aids consisting of medicines and foods on January and February 2017.

Previously, President Jokowi has also instructed Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister to push the Government of Myanmar.

However, the President added, the situation in Rakhine State is much complex considering the conflict has to do with the history, politics, and economy in that region. “In fact, criticism and harsh statements that cannot solve the problems are not needed,” President Jokowi told the ulama (Muslim scholars) of Central Java, at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday (13/9).

President Jokowi also acknowledged that he is grateful that the Governments of Myanmar and Bangladesh have given access for Indonesia to reach out to the location. The President explained that the Government will also build more hospital, the biggest hospital in Rakhine State.

According to President Jokowi, the Government is willing to send more humanitarian aids to Rakhine State and mentioned that other aids have been sent to that area this morning due to the urgency of the situation.

Indonesian Government has sent 4 (four) Hercules to transport humanitarian aids to the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.

“We sent it directly to the refugees, even though it took 6 to 7 hours to reach refugees shelters from the airport,” President Jokowi said.

The condition in border area in Bangladesh with Myanmar is really terrible, President Jokowi added, and if the aids were sent through maritime transport, it can take 2 to 3 weeks to be delivered.

Considering the urgency, the Government decided to send the aids on aircrafts this morning. “In shaa Allah, we will send other aids next week, and the week after. Because we know that the refugees really needed them, particularly foods, medicines, instant foods, and tents,” the President concluded.

Accompanying President Jokowi when receive the ulama was Minister of State Secretary Pratikno. (FID/JAY/ES) (RAS/EP/YM/Naster)