Because of that, we have to find a new model, a new method and new values when looking for solutions to every problem with innovation, and we all have to be willing [to change] and we will force [people] to be willing [to change]. We have to abandon old methods, old patterns, both in managing institutions and in managing government. That which is no longer effective, we will make effective. That which is no longer efficient, we will make efficient!

This is the type of management that we need right now. We have work toward a country that is more productive, that is competitive, that is highly flexible in facing changes. Therefore, we have prepared big stages.

First, we will continue the development of infrastructure. We have already built large infrastructure. Going forward, we will continue building faster and we will connect those large [pieces of] infrastructure, such as toll roads, trains, seaports and airports, with the people’s production areas. We will connect them with small industrial areas, with special economic zones, with tourist areas. We will also connect the large infrastructure with farming areas, plantation areas and fishery ponds.

Second, the development of human resources. We will prioritize the development of human resources, which is the key to Indonesia’s future. The starting point of developing human resources is by ensuring the health of pregnant women, babies, toddlers and school children. These are the golden years to create excellent Indonesians for the future. There cannot be an increase in stunting, maternal mortality, or child mortality.

We will also continue to improve the quality of education. Vocational training and schools are very important. We will also create the Indonesian Talent Management Institution. The government will identify, facilitate and support education and self-improvement for Indonesia’s talents.

We have to support talented members of the diaspora so that they can contribute to Indonesia’s development. We will create a special institution to manage these great talents who can make this country globally competitive.

Third, we must also invite as much investment as possible in order to create jobs. No one should be allergic to investment. This is how we create as many jobs as possible.

Therefore, anything that obstructs investment must be trimmed, such as slow or complicated permit processes, especially illegal levies. Be careful, going forward I guarantee that I will chase, control, check and beat [them] up if necessary! There should no longer be any obstructions to investment because this is the key to creating more jobs.

Fourth, it is very important that we reform our bureaucracy: Structural reform, so that institutions are simpler, more agile. Be careful! If the mindset of the bureaucracy does not change, I guarantee that I will trim it.

The speed of service, the speed of providing permits, is the key to bureaucratic reform. I will check it myself, I will control it myself. The moment I see something that is inefficient or ineffective, I guarantee I will trim it, I will remove the official in charge. Therefore, I need brave ministers. If there is an institution that is not useful and problematic, I will dissolve it.

No more old mindsets! No more linear work, no more routine work, no more monotonous work, no more working in the comfort zone. We have to change. We have to develop new values in work because we have to quickly adapt to the times. That is why we have continued to develop an adaptive, productive, innovative and competitive Indonesia.

Fifth, we have to guarantee that the use of the state budget is focused and targeted. We have to ensure that every rupiah spent has economic utility, provides benefits to the people and improves the public’s prosperity.

These big dreams can only come true if we are united, optimistic and confident. We have to remember that our country is a big country, with a strategic geopolitical location. We are a country that is united in diversity and has an amazing wealth of culture. Our demographics are also very strong, with a total population of 267 million, most of whom are in productive age.

We have to be optimistic toward the future. We have to be confident and brave in facing the challenge of global competition. We have to believe that we can be one of the strongest countries in the world.

National unity is the main thing binding us in achieving advancement. We have to keep strengthening our unity and brotherhood. Only if we are united we become a strong and internationally respected country. Pancasila is the only national ideology and every citizen has to be a part of it.

In a democracy, being a die-hard supporter of a candidate is fine. Supporting [a candidate] militantly is also permitted. Acting as opposition is also very noble. Go ahead. As long as that opposition does not create resentment and hatred, much less become coupled with insults and curses. We have religious norms, ethics, etiquette and a noble culture.

Pancasila is our collective home as compatriots. There is zero tolerance for those who disturb and take issue with Pancasila. There should no longer be any Indonesians who are not united in diversity, who are intolerant toward differences. There should no longer be any Indonesians who do not respect other religions, other tribes and other ethnicities.

We want to be united in diversity together. Getting along is beautiful. Brotherhood is beautiful. Unity is beautiful.

I am certain that we are all committed to a civilized democracy that upholds the identity and dignity of Indonesia that will create an advanced, just and prosperous nation.

An advanced Indonesia is an Indonesia where not a single citizen is left behind from achieving their dreams.

A democratic Indonesia, whose fruits are enjoyed by all the people. An Indonesia where every citizen has the same rights before the law. An Indonesia that masters knowledge and world-class technology. An Indonesia that can protect and maintain the country in an increasingly competitive world.

This is not about me, or you. And not about us, or them. Not about West or East, or South or North. It is not the time to think about all that. It is the time to think about our nation as a whole. Don’t ever hesitate to move
forward because we are capable if we are united!

______________________

The article is based on President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s first political speech since his reelection in front of his supporters at the Sentul International Convention Center in Bogor, West Java.

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