Jakarta – Seputar Indonesia has named President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono the winner of the "People of the Year" award in politics.

The general manager of the daily newspaper, Hary Tanoesoedibjo, presented the award at the Presidential Palace on Monday.

The jury panel consisted of the University of Indonesia's School of Social and Political Sciences dean Hikmahanto Juwono, historian Taufik Abdullah, the Indonesian Institute of Sciences' political researcher Ikrar Nusa Bakti, Bank DKI president director Winny E Hasan, former chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission Taufiqurrahman Ruki, senior journalist Arswendo Atmowiloto and UI's School of Economy dean Bambang Brojonegoro.

Hikmahanto said the jury believed Yudhoyono had performed successfully this year, particularly in dealing with the economy crisis and his ongoing commitment to fighting corruption.

"Of course, the president is an inspiration for his people. One of the criterion for the award is that the recipient can inspire others," he added.

Other winners included Finance Minister Sri Mulyani for her work with the economy, the widow of murdered human rights campaigner Munir, Suciwati, in the legal field and actor/director Dedy Mizwar for his efforts in culture.