Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) affirmed that late former president BJ Habibie’s dedication to democracy in Indonesia will forever remain in the collective memory of the nation's people.

"We will never forget the dedication of BJ Habibie when he became the president of Indonesia. At that time, the late BJ Habibie quickly and strongly laid down the foundation of Indonesian democracy," President Jokowi noted in his remarks during the funeral procession of former president BJ Habibie at the Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery in South Jakarta on Thursday.

Jokowi remarked that during his young days, Habibie was a visionary figure, who was a major source of inspiration for one and all.

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The president noted that BJ Habibie, during his old age, also constantly reminded Indonesians to become the best humans for Indonesia.

"He also reminds of the importance of filling and strengthening human resources through religion, science, and culture," Jokowi stated.

Hence, Jokowi has invited all Indonesians to be thankful and pay their respects to late former president BJ Habibie in acknowledgement of his lifelong dedication to the nation.

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Jokowi also invited Indonesians to pray for the late Habibie, so that his soul would be rewarded with the highest place in the sight of Allah SWT.

"May Allah grant strength and patience to the family of late BJ Habibie," the president stated.

"Don't discuss too much but continue to plunge into the process of adding value consistently, so that Indonesia becomes prominent not only in Southeast Asia but also in the world," Jokowi quoted Habibie's message while closing his remarks. Related news: Pramono Anung highlights five indelible aspects of BJ Habibie

Translator: Maria Rosari, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Azizah Fitriyanti
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