Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, September 16, 2022

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Distinguished Guests.

After the Government has decided to reallocate fuel subsidy to provide better targeted subsidy on September 3, 2022, I ordered Minister of Finance, Minister of Social Affairs, Minister of Manpower to immediately disburse fuel cash assistance and wage subsidy. The assistance of fuel cash subsidy has been disbursed massively at post offices since late August.

In several working visits in different regions, I always monitor the distribution of fuel cash assistance. First, in Jayapura regency, followed by Saumlaki regency, Tanimbar islands, and Bandar Lampung. Previously, I also oversaw the distribution in Maluku province, Southeast Maluku province, precisely in Tual city, Aru islands, and Southwest Maluku regency. I notice that the distribution has been going well. I expect the distribution can be made fast, easy, and right on target.

Minister of Social Affairs and Minister of Manpower are here with us. For anyone who wants to know more about the distribution of fuel cash assistance and wage subsidy, please ask the Minister of Social Affairs and Minister of Manpower. Go ahead.

Reporter
Good morning, Pak President. I am Dian from Kompas.com. I would like to ask about the cash assistance. According to the Demokrat Party, people used to mock cash assistance but it is adopted again during the President’s administration to address surging fuel price. What do you think about that?

Second question is about other issue; your chance to run as the Vice President candidate in the 2024 election. Please answer my questions. Thank you, Pak Jokowi.

President Republic Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

I have told you before that I am not the one who prepared it. Regarding the third term of office, I also have answered it. After that, I also have answered question about extension of term of office.

Now, an issue about vice president emerges? Where did you hear it? If you heard it from me, I will give explanation. If it wasn’t from me, I don’t need to give any statement. Thank you.

(RAS/LW)