Jakarta Provincial Government once again held silaturahmi, an effort to maintain friendly relations, with heads of RT/RW and Sub-District Leaders Forum (LMK) as well as public figures in Istora Senayan, Central Jakarta, Thursday (10/16). In that occasion, president-elect Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo officially said goodbye as Jakarta Governor.

Jakarta is also an important part for Indonesia. Any issues in Jakarta are also President’s responsibility

“As of today, I am no longer a governor. This is because my resignation letter signed by President SBY was issued this morning. I would like to apologize profusely when I served as governor for two years. I’m just an ordinary person who have full of flaws and few strengths. Issues in Jakarta are still many. I want to boost the matters that cannot be done yet, but all need supportive cooperation,” said Jokowi in front of thousands of people who attended the event.

Moreover, Jokowi asked Jakartans not to worry over his resignation, because he promised to boost the development process in Jakarta when he serves as President.

“Believe me, Jakarta is also an important part for Indonesia. Any issues in Jakarta are also President’s responsibility,” he stated.

Jokowi then invited Jakarta Vice Governor Basuki ‘Ahok’ T Purnama to go on stage. He also called Basuki ‘the new Jakarta Governor’.

After Basuki stood beside him, Jokowi told about his impressions and experiences in two years leading Jakarta with Basuki. Jokowi assessed that Basuki is a human who has a soft heart and often gave money to residents who came to him to complain.

“I tell you a bit about Mr. Ahok. He is indeed a tough guy and sharp in speaking. But, his heart is very soft. If anyone came in tears, he will directly be touched and given them money. There are damaged roads and residents come and complain it to him, he immediately ordered the road to be repaired tomorrow. While me, I’m not necessarily like that. That’s the difference between me and Ahok when working,” uttered Jokowi.