President Jokowi Kicks Off W. Kalimantan Working Visit
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo arrives at Singkawang Airport, West Kalimantan, Wednesday (03/20). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo Wednesday (03/20) arrived at Singkawang Airport, West Kalimantan province, at around 09.00 Western Indonesia Time.
Upon his arrival, the President was greeted by Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi, Acting Governor of West Kalimantan Harisson, and Acting Mayor of Singkawang Sumastro.
On that occasion, President Jokowi received typical Kalimantan bead garlands and the wearing of a tanjak, namely a head covering as a sign of welcome. The President’s arrival was accompanied by the Tidayu dance and lion dance performed by the sons and daughters of the West Kalimantan region.
On that occasion, the President was honored with traditional Kalimantan bead garlands and donned a tanjak, a symbolic head covering signifying a warm reception. His arrival was further enhanced by the Tidayu dance and lion dance performed by local residents of West Kalimantan.
According to Ashari Arhap, Chairperson of the Singkawang City Arts, Culture, and Nazam Zikir Association, the reception incorporated customs and traditions from three ethnic groups in Singkawang city, including Chinese, Dayak, and Malay, which reflects the harmonious coexistence of these ethnicities in Singkawang.
“We are showcasing the beauty of our diversity here, emphasizing the importance of inter-ethnic tolerance, and striving to enhance and preserve it. It’s crucial that this cultural richness, stemming from the Chinese, Dayak, Malay, and various other ethnicities in Singkawang City, remains vibrant and enduring through time,” he said.
The welcoming ceremony proceeded with the traditional ‘Tepung Tawar’ ritual followed by the recitation of prayers led by Ashari. Following the reception, President Jokowi conducted an inspection of several facilities and infrastructure at Singkawang Airport. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/AIT) (RIF/MUR)
