Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia During the Inauguration of the UKM Mart (SMEs Mart) in Tidore Islands City, North Maluku Province, September 28, 2022

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

They empower and develop MSMEs in North Maluku province very professionally. I saw the quality of the products is good, the packaging and the logo on it are also good. This UKM Mart has a good product display. I think other provinces should take it as an example. Once again, the province put in a great deal of effort for SMEs’ development and empowerment. That’s a fact. It is excellent.

Journalist
Mr. President, regarding Sofifi city would you like to explain?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Sofifi city is the center of North Maluku Provincial Government and several institutions have moved there. The city is expected to be a new growth point in the near future. However, there are some infrastructures that still need to be supported by the Central Government; nearby port and airport. That’s necessary. Earlier, I also had a long discussion with the Governor about the scheme. I’ll let you know as soon as we figure it out.

Journalist
What about the municipality status? The community has been holding their expectations for 23 years, Sir.

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

That will be discussed among the Governor, Minister of Home Affairs, and the Tidore city government. We already have the city government, but who will manage it? Will it be Tidore city? Will it become a self-standing municipality? Careful considerations must be taken. The study has not reached my desk yet.

Journalist
In fact, Ministry of Home Affairs has intervened to study this matter. Has it not been completed until now?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Yes, but I have not received it yet. I am not sure what they are working on, but it has not reached my desk. That’s all.

(RIF/MMB)