Central Lampung Tengah, Nov 23 (ANTARA News) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said the public would lose out if the influence of social media and political differences undermined unity and brotherhood.

"Don`t let things such as these happen due to political influence; because of social media influences, you don`t all become like brothers and sisters. It will be our big loss if this continues," said President Jokowi in his remarks, while handing over land certificates in Central Lampung District on Friday.

According to Jokowi, the community has the right to choose the best candidates in regional elections and presidential elections.

People can see achievements, track records and ideas from prospective leaders.

The president also expressed concern at the time of entering the political year, due to the spread of slander, the circulation of false news and blasphemy through social media.

Jokowi was also furious about the existence of slander, which has spread in relation to the PKI (aborted communist movement).

"Such slander that the PKI was dissolved from 1965-1966. I was born in 61, meaning my age is only four years. How come it is rumored that President Jokowi is a PKI activist? Is there a PKI toddler?" asked the President.

The president also asked the public not to easily trust outstanding issues through social media.

The President and First Lady Iriana Joko Widodo made a working visit in Lampung Province on Friday and Saturday (Nov 23-24).

In addition to handing over land certificates, the President has also observed the construction of the Trans-Sumatra toll road that connects Bakauheuni-Palembang in the Bakauheuni-Terbanggi Besar section.

Reporter: Antara
Editor: Eliswan Azly
Copyright © ANTARA 2018