Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Peak of Simultaneous National Mangrove Tree Planting at the Angke Kapuk Nature Tourism Park, North Jakarta, DKI Jakarta Province, May 15, 2023

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
The mangrove planting is carried out simultaneously throughout the country and today is the peak of the event. As you may be aware, Indonesia is home to the largest mangrove forest in the world—3.3 million hectares. It is the largest in the world. We have to take care of it, to protect, to replant the trees in critical places; so that no more damaged mangrove forests. It is of particular importance in restoring the natural habitat of crabs, fish, monitor lizards, monkeys, and lots of birds here and the eagles have started to live here again.

I think the activity of replanting mangrove forests can continue in other areas across the country. The mangrove planting is expected to protect our coasts from the possibility of climate change, so the plants can accommodate rising sea water. This is indeed the protection we really need.

Journalist
… (inaudible)

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I will give a statement when it is finished. It is still on the table.

Journalist
Sir, as you said earlier that any minister who runs for legislative will be replaced if they show poor performance. Is it possible that there will be some sort of warning for them so it will not affect their duty?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
No matter what they do, that should be fine as long as it is not against the law and regulations. Running for legislative seat is allowed. However, there will be an evaluation so they cannot ignore the duty. If it affects their performance, there will be a reshuffle so they can focus on the legislative-related matters.

Journalist
How about the minister who runs for the presidential election, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
The same applies equally to all. If they do not have enough time for the campaign, they better take personal leaves or else. The main thing is they do not break the laws and regulations. Speaking of which, please ask Mr. Prabowo directly.

Journalist
Regarding security issues in Papua, have you made directions yet since the number of hostages from BTS employees clocked up?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
The real situation on the ground is not as easy as we might imagine just like in Jakarta. I have been to Nduga twice and to Wamena around four or five times. It was inaccessible and extreme terrain, wilderness, very cold with hundreds of meters deep ravines. You cannot imagine how it is until you get there. The Armed Criminal Group (KKB) controls the area. That is how the terrain really is. Yesterday, we also secured several hostages. So, once you get there, you will understand how hard the terrain is.

Journalist
Sir, Surya Paloh might seem disappointed for the support from Solo and now … (inaudible) … the lowest. What is your take on that?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I am just good.

Journalist
Do you have plans to meet Surya Paloh?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Not yet.

Journalist
But we heard that the NasDem party will have a plan … (inaudible)

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Well, it could be.

(RIF/MUR)