Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia after Handing Over Bonuses to the Athletes of the 23rd SEA Games, Front Yard of Merdeka Palace, Special Capital Region of Jakarta, June 5, 2023

Journalist:
Is there a suggestion from you to the athletes to optimize the bonuses for long-term investment, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
Of course, since the athletes are still in their youth. Some of them are in their twenty, twenty-two, or twenty-five. They can still leave their marks in the future. So, if one athlete received, what’s the amount, Rp500 million? Rp525 million, that’s a fantastic number. Please don’t buy things that aren’t considered as medium or long term investment, that’s all I ask.

Journalist:
How about the athletes development in the future, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
I think there will be improvements since we now have Indonesian National Sports Grand Design. Meaning, there are roadmap, targets to achieve, and timeframe, including for football. Maybe I will discuss it more with the coaches and players to receive more inputs.

Journalist:
Are you going to watch the football match between Indonesia and Argentina, Sir? It’s going to be crowded.

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
I don’t know, I’m not sure I will get the ticket or not.

Journalist:
I am sure you will get the ticket, Sir. And how about Coldplay?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
Yes, I will attend the concert.

Journalist:
What is your thought on the Head of KPK, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
No, no. [I will go there] since I already got the ticket. As for the football match, the tickets will go on sale today.

(GWH/LW)