Heaptalk, Jakarta — Thousands of West Kutai residents turned up to welcome President Joko Widodo with great fanfare at Itho Square, Barong Tongkok District (11/03). They have been crowding the location since morning waiting for Jokowi’s arrival.
President Joko Widodo responded to the public’s welcome with waves, smiles, and thanks. His presence in West Kutai was to witness the Dahau Festival to commemorate the 24th anniversary of the regency.
In his remarks, President Joko Widodo greeted the public in the Dayak language, “Adil ka’ talion, bacuramin ka’ saruga, basengat ka’ jubata.” This sentence is a cultural greeting from the Dayak tribe which contains three pillars of life guidance, namely being fair to fellow humans, reflecting on heaven, and the breath of life coming from God. The residents answered the greeting in the Dayak language as well, “Arus,” which means agree.
Joko Widodo further admitted that he was proud to be present in front of the residents of West Kutai and at the same time attending the invitation to the regency’s 24th anniversary. He praised the regency for being able to maintain tolerance for religious harmony and preserve cultural traditions.
“I see that the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika can be brought to reality in West Kutai. This can be seen from the residents who are very harmonious and maintain unity continuously. I am optimistic that with the existence of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in West Kutai and other regions, the nation’s aspirations towards a Golden Indonesia 2045 and moving from a middle-class country to a developed country can be achieved,” Joko Widodo explained.
On the occasion, President Joko Widodo also interacted with residents, held a quiz with bicycle prizes, took selfies with residents, and shook hands with them. (Translated by Sinta)
