I and President Jokowi have spoken about the duty of continuing the development of infrastructure that is suited to his vision for the second-term government to build tourism and industrial connectivity
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Basuki Hadimuljono will likely continue to occupy his earlier position as public working and people housing (PUPR) minister to carry forward the duty of developing Indonesia's infrastructure sectors.

"I and President Jokowi have spoken about the duty of continuing the development of infrastructure that is aligned with his vision for the second-term government to build tourism and industrial connectivity," Hadimuljono remarked after meeting with Jokowi at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Tuesday.

He mentioned the industrial areas of Brebes, Magetan, and Ngawi as well as the tourist destination areas of Lake Toba, Mandalika, Labuan Bajo, and Likupang.

Apart from the assignment to reoccupy the position, Hadimuljono also reported to Jokowi on the progress on the contest pertaining to Indonesia's new capital.

Related news: Fresh faces to be part of new cabinet line-up: Jokowi

"He was enquiring about the progress in terms of the new capital concept contest, which I can say is currently in the stage of aanwijzing (assignment and preparation of details) with 762 participants. He was surprised on knowing the number," he stated.

During the meeting, Hadimuljono and President Jokowi also had lunch, with the songs of the president's favorites from Queen and Metallica playing in the background.

Jokowi’s intent to keep Hadimuljono as his minister for infrastructure matters can be linked to the president's statement on December 16, 2017, citing that Hadimuljono is "the father of infrastructure."

It means without Hadimuljono's work in the sector, infrastructure projects would have likely been tough to implement.

"Position is an order from the boss that I will definitely carry on. Praises to the cooperation you all have conducted, and if tomorrow I were to be inaugurated, I wholeheartedly seek God's blessings to keep me on the right path," he stated.

Related news: Old hands still part of new cabinet line-up: Jokowi

Translator: Desca Lidya Natalia, Suwanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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