"I know that a similar incident had occurred in 2002, 17 years ago in Java and Bali (electricity distribution system). It should have served as a lesson and eye-opener for us all to prevent recurrence of a similar incident," the president remarked during his visit to the office of state-owned electricity firm PT PLN here on Monday.
Jokowi remarked that the major blackout that hit Jakarta, West Java, and Banten on Sunday (Aug 4) has tarnished the company's reputation and disadvantaged customers.
"For public transportation service, MRT, for instance, it could be dangerous," he stated.
Jokowi has met with PLN's board of directors to seek clarification on the cause of a major blackout and discuss power supply recovery efforts.
The president has called on the company to gauge the risk in power distribution.
"My question is, why it (the blackout) happened. It means that (the risk in distribution) was not well-calculated, and this has harmed us all," Jokowi stated.
A blackout has affected thousands of homes and public facilities in the areas of Greater Jakarta, Banten, and West Java on Sunday afternoon. The electricity went out at 11:48 a.m. local time.
The blackout also affected Jakarta's commuter train and MRT services.
PT PLN has gradually recovered the power supply. It has tendered an apology for the inconvenience caused and would conduct evaluation to prevent recurrence of the incident.
Related news: President discusses power supply recovery efforts
Related news: PLN gradually recovers electricity supply
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Translator: Bayu Prasetyo, Sri Haryati
Editor: Suharto
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