Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Official Opening of the National Working Meeting of the Indonesian Islamic Propagation Institute (LDII) and the Inauguration of the Minhaajurrosyidiin Multipurpose Building, East Jakarta Administrative City, Jakarta Special Capital Region Province, November 7, 2023

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

I think this LDII National Working Meeting, as Mr. Chairperson has just said earlier, aims to build an Indonesian character in terms of nationality, religion, education, and health so that our human resources development becomes real and concrete. I believe the Government supports that cause.

Journalists

Of all the development challenges that become the Government’s priorities such as food security, … (audio not clearly audible), economy, and so on, which one is the top priority?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

[The top priority] is human resources development because without support from the good and concrete human resources development, demographic bonus will instead become a heavy burden for our country. I think what Mr. Chairperson of LDII has said is correct.

Journalists

Sir, what do you mean by strong leadership?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, because we are facing tough challenges, external challenges that are difficult to predict, and challenges that are difficult to calculate. Sometimes they arise suddenly and unpredictably. So once again, we need strong leadership.

(TM/EP)