Jakarta – Further inspiring various nations around the world, the biography "Jokowi Mewujudkan Mimpi Indonesia" (Jokowi Fulfills Indonesia's Dream) by Darmawan Prasodjo has been published in the Arabic language, with the book launch held on the sidelines of the COP28 event in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates on Dec. 2.
First published in 2020, the book, which has also been published in English and Korean, summarizes President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo's achievements in creating progress in various fields, from establishing equal distribution of basic services such as health and education and community economic development to transportation infrastructure development in various provinces to build prosperity.
Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Indonesia Abdulla Salem Aldhaheri noted that the book could serve to provide insight for leaders and potential leaders around the world. Aldhaheri himself considers President Jokowi to be an influential figure in driving the Indonesian economy.
"I am very impressed with President Joko Widodo's vision and strategy in making Indonesia one of the most influential countries today, especially becoming one of the epicenters of growth in the world," said Aldhaheri.
He further expressed his hopes that cooperation between the UAE and Indonesia will continue and create prosperity for both nations' communities.
The book's author, state-owned electricity company PLN President Director Darmawan Prasodjo, explained that "Jokowi Mewujudkan Mimpi Indonesia" not only describes Jokowi's success story, but also outlines Indonesia's long journey to become a great nation. Through Jokowi's leadership, Indonesia has achieved a strong position and has gained bargaining power on the global stage.
"This book is a heroic journey and experience of a great leader. It examines the character of a leader who is able to bring dreams into solid development planning; A leader who sided with the people so that all the programs and policies produced always prioritize the welfare of the people," Darmawan said during the launch on Dec. 3.
One of the most important achievements of Jokowi's leadership is bringing Indonesia into the energy transition. Darmawan acknowledged that the President's direction in strengthening Indonesia's energy transition was one of the accelerated steps taken by PLN.
"Indonesia has declared a net zero emissions road map. Through the direction and guidance of the President, Indonesia currently has the most environmentally friendly National Electricity Plan in the nation's history," he said.
Indonesia's took quick action during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though every country was hit by the pandemic, Indonesia not only maintained healthy economic growth, but also took transformative steps to address the challenge of the climate crisis.
"What PLN is doing is a direct mandate from our President's futuristic vision. We faced an unprecedented disaster, but what happened? Indonesia did not fall and was instead able to stand strong. In fact, it recovered and rose quickly," Darmawan said.
Indonesia's stable economic growth is supported by connectivity from all sectors, he continued, and Jokowi's leadership has marked a new historical milestone for Indonesia.
"In a journey of more than half a decade, Indonesia has built its national capacity, developed supply chains, built downstream industries, opened investment doors and organized a healthy investment ecosystem. Every potential that exists in the regions can be developed to create more jobs and to fight for the welfare of the people."
Darmawan also expressed his hope that the book will not only become a historical record, but also inspire and encourage its readers regarding the vision and mission of a better future for the world.
"We share our dreams. This book can show an example of a good leader, an example of leadership not only in Indonesia, but also throughout the world," said Darmawan.
Samir Boudinar, Director of the UAE-based Alhokama Center for Peace Research, said the Jokowi Mewujudkan Mimpi Indonesia is a very appropriate reference for those wishing to be acquainted with Indonesia and with Jokowi's leadership, noting that the author is able to explain the background and values that guide the President so that he is able to mobilize all of Indonesia's citizens to develop the country.
"Truly, Indonesia and this book inspire us all. This book must be read by all of us, Arab citizens and citizens of the Islamic world. This book honestly provides abundant information that Indonesia is based on morals and human values," Samir said.
He also shared his experiences when he visited Indonesia and saw firsthand the progress made by the archipelago.
"I just came from Yogyakarta, Jakarta and Surabaya. I could directly feel the pulse of Indonesia's progress; we can see infrastructure development, such as airports and toll roads," Samir concluded.