Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the 2022 Jakarta E-Prix Jakarta International E-Prix Circuit Ancol, Special Capital Region of Jakarta, June 4, 2022
Reporter:
What do you think after watching and handing over trophies, Pak?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
Well, thank God, everything went smoothly. I think this is an event of the future because as we are aware, there will be a transition from [fossil fuel-run] cars to electric cars so this will become a spectacle that will gain more enthusiasts in the future. And it is also good for our country because moving forward, we want to build an electric battery ecosystem, which includes nickels as raw materials, smelters, lithium battery industry, and electric vehicles. I suppose the technology displayed in Formula E will support that. Everything will be environmentally sound.
Reporter:
Does it mean that you will support the plan to hold the race in two series, Pak? There is a plan to hold two series next year, do you think it will be supported, Pak? Because in Saudi, there were two series as well, Pak. Twice in Riyadh. What about in Indonesia, Pak?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
We support everything that is good for our country.
Reporter:
There were widely spread rumors about the lack of the Central Government’s support for the organization of Formula E. Does your presence indicate support?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
I think [the Government has given support] from the circuit construction. I also directly inspected it to check the preparedness, also matters related to goods entering the country, customs at Ministry of Finance. Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy also gave its support in terms of permits. Those are forms of support.
Reporter:
About the circuit itself, Pak, will there be many similar races or what will be done with this circuit?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
It would be better if a circuit has more events. It will be more productive and better. If possible, there should be an event every week, or 10 events, 15 events every year.
Reporter:
Pak Jokowi, about Pak Pratikno’s statement yesterday that there will be a hint about cabinet reshuffling this June. Is that true, Pak?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
From race to reshuffling. Just talk about race.
Reporter:
Last one, Pak. What is the appreciation bonus for SEA Games athletes, Pak?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
There will be an event concerning this matter next week. There will certainly be bonus.
Reporter:
Will you welcome the contingent or something, Pak?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
It will be arranged by Minister of Youth and Sports and Minister of State Secretary next week. It will be ready next week, yes?
Minister of Youth and Sports (Zainudin Amali):
God willing, next week, yes, next week, Pak.
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
They will receive the bonus, won’t they?
Minister of Youth and Sports (Zainudin Amali):
Yes, so next week Pak President will hand over [the bonus] directly to the athletes and coaches.
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo):
That will be all.
Reporter:
Thank you, Pak President.
(DH/EP)