Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia during a Visit to Tanah Abang Market, Jakarta, January 2, 2023
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I would like to see the development of the real economy. This market sells products produced in many regions. If the operation of this market stops, the production activities will stop.
I hope we can be optimistic in the year of 2023. The year of 2022 was full of challenges, so was the previous year. The lifting of the activity restriction policy (PPKM) is expected to boost our optimism, not only at Tanah Abang market, but also at 16 Ilir market in Palembang, Terong market in Makassar, Beringharjo market in Yogyakarta, Turi Market in Surabaya, Johar Market in Semarang, Pasar Baru market in Bandung, and Gedebage Market in Bandung.
I have asked several traders, they said that their revenue in 2022 was much better than their revenue in 2021. We hope that the situation in 2023 will be better than that of 2022.
Journalist
Nowadays, many traders have accessed online platforms. What do you think?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I had conversations with them and they said that they have accessed online platforms, and sold their products at the marketplaces. This is a good thing. This is a significant leap, that is, by accessing digital system and digital market. We hope that it will facilitate interaction between producers and consumers as well as between sellers and buyers.
Journalist
Will there be any reshuffle in 2023, sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Let’s see.
Journalist
Will Mr. Andhika join the Cabinet?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Let’s see.
Journalist
What about the Nasdem party, Mr. Jokowi?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Let’s see.
Journalist
Why did the Government issue Government Regulation in Lieu of Law (Perppu) on Job Creation? The policy has its pros and cons.
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Every policy and regulation has its pros and cons, but we can explain everything.
Journalist
Has the mask mandate policy been lifted, Sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
We have announced provisions regarding the [repeal of] activity restriction policy (PPKM).
Journalist
Is there any personal wish in the year of 2023 sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
We hope that Indonesia will not be affected by the global recession.
Journalist
Thank you Mr. President.
(RI/LW)