Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has appointed a native Papuan figure named Wempi Wetipo as deputy minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR).

"Mr Wempi Wetipo is an indigeous Papuan. Thus, the land of Papua is represented by two figures in the Indonesia Onward Cabinet line-up," he remarked while introducing his 12 deputy ministers at the Merdeka Palace here on Friday.

Wetipo has extensive experience in governing and managing the state's institution, as he had also headed the Jayawijaya District for two leadership terms, he pointed out.

President Jokowi has pinned hopes on Wetipo being able to supervise varied infrastructure projects across Indonesia, including those in the eastern parts of the country.

He stated that Chief of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Bahlil Lahadalia is the other representative of Papuan communities in the new cabinet.

Related news: President Jokowi installs 12 deputy ministers
Related news: President Jokowi introduces 12 vice ministers


A day following the inauguration of his 12 deputy ministers on Friday, President Jokowi is scheduled to visit the provinces of Papua and West Papua.

According to Deputy West Papua Governor Mohamad Lakotani, President Jokowi and his entourage is scheduled to depart aboard the presidential aircraft from the Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in East Jakarta for the Dominie Edward Osok Airport in Sorong, West Papua, on Saturday.

"Mr President is scheduled to arrive at Sorong at around 9 p.m. local time. On Sunday morning, he continues his trip to Manokwari, the capital city of West Papua Province, and Pegunungan Arfak District aboard a helicopter," he stated.

After his around 45-minute stay in Pegunungan Arfak District, President Jokowi will return to Manokwari and prepare for leaving for Kaimana District, he stated.

"On Sunday afternoon, President Jokowi is expected to have been in Kaimana to enjoy the beauty of the sunset there," Lakotani stated.

On Monday (Oct 28), President Jokowi continues his working visit by heading to Wamena, the capital city of Jayawijaya District, in Papua Province.

"We are thankful since from the onset, President Jokowi begins his second leadership term by visiting several areas in Papua and West Papua. Of course, we have several agenda items that we can propose to Mr. President," he added.

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Translator: Bayu P, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Sri Haryati
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