President Prabowo Subianto officially inaugurated the new petrochemical plant project belonging to PT Lotte Chemical Indonesia (LCI) in Cilegon, Banten, on Thursday (November 6). This significant industrial development marks a crucial step in Indonesia’s economic growth and domestic production capabilities, bolstering the nation’s manufacturing sector.
During the ceremony, President Prabowo revealed that he had extended an invitation to the 7th President, Joko Widodo, who unfortunately could not attend. “He [Jokowi] apologized for not being able to be present, and I conveyed that we understand completely,” Prabowo stated, as quoted from the Presidential Secretariat’s YouTube broadcast. President Prabowo then elaborated on the specific reason for inviting his predecessor to such a monumental event.
Prabowo explained that the invitation stemmed from former President Jokowi’s pivotal role in the project’s inception. “The establishment of this venture in Indonesia originated from the diplomatic initiatives and lobbying efforts of President Widodo with South Korea,” Prabowo elaborated, highlighting the former leader’s foresight and international engagement that laid the groundwork for the substantial investment.
Seizing the opportunity, President Prabowo also implored the public to refrain from dissecting former President Jokowi’s past actions, especially as he transitions into retirement. “He led for 10 years and earned global recognition. Indeed, under his tenure, inflation was well-managed, and economic growth was robust. Come on, let’s be honest about his achievements,” Prabowo urged, emphasizing the positive legacy of the former Solo Mayor.
Furthermore, President Prabowo addressed persistent allegations regarding his relationship with his predecessor. While affirming a strong and positive bond with Jokowi, he firmly refuted claims that he is either ‘afraid of’ or ‘controlled by’ the former president. “‘It’s not that Prabowo is afraid of Jokowi, or that Prabowo is still controlled by Jokowi; such notions are baseless,’ Prabowo asserted unequivocally. ‘Mr. Jokowi has never made any personal requests or given any instructions to me. I must state this truthfully.'”
Summary
President Prabowo Subianto officially inaugurated PT Lotte Chemical Indonesia’s new petrochemical plant project in Cilegon, Banten, on Thursday, November 6. Although former President Joko Widodo was invited, he could not attend the event and apologized. Prabowo explained that Jokowi’s diplomatic initiatives with South Korea were pivotal in the project’s inception and establishment in Indonesia.
During the ceremony, President Prabowo urged the public to acknowledge Jokowi’s achievements during his 10-year presidency, citing well-managed inflation and robust economic growth. Prabowo also firmly refuted allegations that he is ‘afraid of’ or ‘controlled by’ his predecessor, stating their bond is strong and Jokowi has never given him personal requests or instructions.
