Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Inauguration of Ladongi Dam in East Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province, 28 December 2021

Reporter

Pak, could you explain why you boarded the boat, pak?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Firstly, let me reiterate that Ladongi Dam in East Kolaka regency, Southeast Sulawesi province has a capacity of 45.9 million cubic meters with an area of 222 hectares, which will be able to irrigate four regencies around the dam.

Secondly, the functions of Ladongi Dam are not only related to watering rice fields in four regencies, but considering the beautiful nature around this dam, it also can be developed into a tourist destination, particularly water tourist destination. I tried using a boat, rowing because indeed this dam can be utilized as a tourist destination. Therefore, it is the responsibility of [related] regencies and [Southeast Sulawesi] province to further develop this dam.

Reporter:

What was getting on the boat like, Pak? Were you scared?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

No, but the drums were not loud enough, so those who rowed were not motivated because the drums only went dung, dung, dung, dung. It should’ve sounded like dddungddungddungddungdungddung. It would’ve uplifted the spirit. That would be all. Thank you.

Wassalaamu’alaikum warahmatullaahi wabarakaatuh.

(DH/EP)