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Jokowi highlights strong economic stats 2 months before retirement

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Jakarta Globe - August 16, 2024

Heru Andriyanto, Jakarta – In his final State of the Nation Address at the joint session of the People's Consultative Assembly on Friday, President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo highlighted key economic achievements during his decade-long administration.

The two-term president said economic growth has consistently remained above 5 percent, with the country recovering more rapidly from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Economic growth in eastern regions such as Papua and Maluku has exceeded 6 percent, while North Maluku recorded over 20 percent," Jokowi noted.

Jokowi's presidency will conclude on October 20, with Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto set to succeed him after a decisive victory in the February election alongside running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Jokowi's eldest son.

"Inflation has also been kept in check at around 2-3 percent, while many countries are experiencing extraordinarily high inflation rates – some even exceeding 200 percent," Jokowi said.

One of the administration's most significant achievements is the reduction of the extreme poverty rate, from 6.1 percent to 0.8 percent in 2024.

Government data also shows that the unemployment rate has dropped from 5.7 percent to 4.8 percent.

Over the past decade, the government has allocated Rp 361 trillion ($23 billion) in healthcare subsidies for the poor, benefiting more than 92 million people, Jokowi said.

Additionally, Rp 113 trillion ($7 billion) has been allocated for education subsidies, benefiting over 20 million students from low-income families.

"We have taken a major step to boost productivity and add value by halting the export of raw materials and processing them domestically. Despite opposition, lawsuits, and attempts to thwart our efforts, we as a sovereign and great nation remain resolute and continue to forge ahead," he stated.

According to Jokowi, domestic processing of nickel, bauxite, and copper has created over 200,000 jobs and boosted state revenue by more than Rp 158 trillion ($10 billion) over the past eight years.

"We started with nickel, bauxite, and copper, and we will continue with tin and other potential sectors such as plantation agriculture and marine industries," he added.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/business/jokowi-highlights-strong-economic-stats-2-months-before-retiremen

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