When meeting with people, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo usually throws out quiz questions and gives them bicycles as a reward if they answer correctly.

Recently, however, the President has also started to grant funds in this manner, particularly for those who want to open businesses.

During his visit to the Manpower Ministry's Vocational Training Center (BLK) in Bekasi, West Java on Wednesday, Jokowi invited Warman, a participant, to come forward

Warman, who is a fish breeder from Subang, West Java, told the President that he wanted to construct new ponds to breed decorative fish.

"You say you need to construct four fish ponds and buy fish eggs to start your business. How much money do you need?" Jokowi asked.

When Warman explained that he needed Rp 10 million (US$738) to open the business, Jokowi generously promised to grant him the funds. Warman also received a bicycle from the President.

He praised Warman for aspiring to open a business, instead of applying to become a civil servant with the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry. “He just wanted to open a business and I appreciate people with such spirit," he said.

On Dec. 8, Jokowi also granted funds in Bandung when he met a number of young people, who also told the President that they wanted to open businesses.

"People needed capital injections and motivation to open businesses. We need to encourage young entrepreneurs to start businesses,” the President added. (bbn)