President Jokowi Visits Traditional Market in Tanimbar Islands

President Jokowi and Ibu Iriana Jokowi visited Olilit Market, in South Tanimbar district, Tanimbar Islands regency, Maluku province, on Friday (09/02).(Photo: Bureau of Press, Media, and Information of Presidential Secretariat)

As part of the working visit in Maluku province, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and First Lady Ibu Iriana Jokowi Friday (09/02) visited Olilit traditional market in South Tanimbar district, Tanimbar Islands regency, Maluku province.

Thousands of locals enthusiastically welcome dthe President and the First Lady.

“The residents are so happy and enthusiastic to welcome President Jokowi since the last visit paid by an Indonesian President was by President Soekarno back in 1958,” Regent Ad interim of Tanimbar Islands, Daniel Indey said.

President Jokowi also greeted sellers at the market and reminded them to use the cash direct assistance (BLT) provided to increase their business capital.

“With better business capital, we hope street vendors and sellers will have better income,” President Jokowi said.

At Olilit traditional market, President Jokowi also gave his response on the issue of Tanimbar Islands included in two fisheries management areas, but not designated as a national food strategic reserve.

“Mapping of the areas has been done and calculated by Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, which is considering the groups, the ports, and all. So, if the potentials remain inadequate, it cannot be designated as a fisheries management area,” he said.

“We can see that the potentials here are mostly used for local needs. I think it is fine. They do not need to be exported as long as the people’s consumption can be better because it is related to the local children’s nutrition. Do not export all the potentials. Not all areas can be designated as a fisheries management area,” the President remarked. (TGH/Bureau of Press, Media, and Information of Presidential Secretariat/UN) (AW/EP)