Alfida Rizky Febrianna, Jakarta – A University of Indonesia (UI) economics professor has proposed that President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo be honored with the title of "Father of Indonesian Infrastructure" for the significant development projects completed during his decade-long tenure.
Government data shows that 73 percent of Indonesia's existing 2,893 kilometers of toll roads were constructed during Jokowi's administration, with many projects extending beyond Java to other provinces.
In addition, the current government has built 53 new dams to bolster the agricultural sector and mitigate flooding during the rainy season. Jokowi's term has also modernized transportation in Greater Jakarta through the creation of new railway networks, including the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), Light Rail Transit (LRT), and the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Train.
Further reflecting his commitment to infrastructure, Jokowi oversaw the construction of 28 new ports, part of his "maritime tollway" initiative aimed at improving connectivity across Indonesia's archipelago.
A particularly notable project was Jokowi's involvement in building the Mandalika Circuit in Lombok, a move designed to boost sports tourism and satisfy the millions of MotoGP fans in Indonesia.
"He is truly the father of Indonesian infrastructure. The state budget allocates approximately Rp 400-500 trillion ($24.6-30.7 billion) annually for infrastructure development," said Telisa Aulia Falianty, a professor at UI's Faculty of Economics and Business.
Telisa added that Jokowi's infrastructure drive has significantly improved connectivity and facilitated smoother food distribution, even in Indonesia's most remote and border regions.
"One of the most commendable aspects of President Joko Widodo's legacy is his focus on developing the nation's outermost areas. While these projects may not have seemed economically viable at first, their impact has been immediate, helping to reduce income disparities in remote regions," she explained.
"The president's emphasis on infrastructure in these areas is something we all should appreciate."