Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) described former president BJ Habibie as a statesman that should be treated as a role model for the nation.

"He was a statesman that should become a role model in the daily life of the nation," Jokowi said at the Army Hospital of Gatot Soebroto here on Wednesday.

The beloved former president passed away at 6.05 p.m. at the hospital where he had been treated since September 1 for heart illness.

Jokowi said, the "father of Indonesian technology" has always sought the best solution to various problems faced by the country, saying that he often consulted to Habibie on various issues.

"He always gave his solutions, ways out. He also often came to the Palace," Jokowi added.

Jokowi arrived at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto five minutes after the former president passed away.

Habibie was under observation of a team of 44 doctors led by the presidential doctor team.

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Translator: Devi Nindy SR, Sri Haryati
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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