Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia After Inaugurating ‘Istana Berbatik’ in front of Merdeka Palace, DKI Jakarta Province, October 1, 2023
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
Once again, batik is our face and acts as the face of our culture as well as an extraordinary work of art. There is value of symbolism and philosophy on each motif, and this is Indonesian culture. And, to express our pride, today we are launching “Istana Berbatik”
Reporter:
Pak Jokowi, what kind of Batik are you wearing? Abah (Vice President), what kind of batik are you wearing?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
There are too many motifs, thousands of Batik motifs change every day. The motifs and colors are changeable. However, I, indeed, like the sogan color.
Reporter:
Sir, some ministers did fashion show, including Pak Kapolri (National Police Chief) and Pak Basuki (Minister of Public Work and Public Housing). What is your response, Sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
Yes, we do not have to be serious all the time. Every day we are always busy with very serious things, working for the country. Yes, we invited them to become models.
Reporter:
Sir, regarding reshuffle, is it true, Sir? Is the issue of reshuffle true or not?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
Where did you hear it from?
Reporter:
From outside, Sir.
Mr. Jokowi, a bit on your response to Anies’ statement who said that this national strategic project was “a by-request project”, what do you think, Sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
Yes, just show me which project and whose request?
Reporter:
Sir, about the high-speed train, will it be inaugurated tomorrow, sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
Yes, yes tomorrow. See you tomorrow morning in Halim.
Reporter:
We are all invited, aren’t we, sir? Will you invite us, Sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
If you’re not invited, just jump on the train and that’s fine.
Reporter:
Abah will come along in the high-speed train inauguration, will not he?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
He will. No, he will not come. The Vice President and I cannot be on the same plane or in the same vehicle, you have to know the regulation.
(RY/MUR)