Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia During Inauguration of 147 Quake-Affected Buildings and Implementation of the Regional Road Presidential Instruction at SMKN 1 Vocational School Rangas in Mamuju Regency, West Sulawesi Province, April 23, 2024

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
We have undertaken the reconstruction and rehabilitation of 147 infrastructure buildings after the earthquake disaster in West Sulawesi province. One of these inaugurated projects is the SMKN 1 vocational school in Rangas, Mamuju. Apart from educational facilities, we’ve also completed the construction of health facilities, places of worship, and offices. Only the Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) building and one mosque are still undergoing progress. The total expenditure for these projects amounted to Rp1.31 trillion.

Journalist
What about residents who have not yet received housing assistance, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I will convey this to Head of BNPB to conduct another field assessment, to ensure that those who have not yet received assistance are identified.

Journalist
What’s your take on the Constitutional Court’s decision, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Well, the Government acknowledges and respects the final and binding decision of the Constitutional Court. According to the legal considerations provided by the Constitutional Court, accusations against the Government, such as fraud, intervention by authorities, politicization of social assistance, mobilization of officials, and non-neutrality of regional heads, have been declared unsubstantiated. This is a significant validation for the Government. In my view, it’s imperative for us to come together, especially considering the external geopolitical pressures faced by all nations. It’s time for unity and concerted efforts towards our country’s development. The Government fully supports the transition process to the new administration and is prepared to facilitate it. With the Constitutional Court’s decision finalized, we now await the decision of the General Elections Commission (KPU) tomorrow. That’s my perspective on the matter.

Journalist
Will Prof. Zudan’s term as Acting Governor of West Sulawesi be extended or not?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
We evaluate the performance every three months, and if things are going well, why should we replace it?

Journalist
Does that mean it’s extended, sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I said, we evaluate the performance every three months.

Journalist
Is the evaluation positive or not?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Do you think that’s a good outcome?

Journalist
Good.

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Well, that implies it’s being extended then.

(RIF/MUR)