He told them he is aware that micro, small, medium, and even large businesses have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
“Indeed, the current situation is not easy, I am aware of that. This is happening because the COVID-19 pandemic has (had) an impact on the economy,” President Jokowi said while speaking to the workers in the Bogor Presidential Palace’s grounds.
The President also stressed that the pandemic has affected not just Indonesia, but economies all over the world.
He said around 215 countries, including Indonesia, are reeling under the impact of COVID-19.
“(Some countries are faced) With similar conditions like ours, (while) some are even under worse circumstances," he noted.
Related news: President prioritizing economic stimulus for MSMEs
He then acknowledged the dip in earnings experienced by small businesses, with some even seeing their income decline by more than 100 percent.
While speaking to the workers, who included street vendors, food kiosk owners, and other micro and small business owners, he said he hoped the Rp2.4 million in assistance provided to them in the form of working capital would help ease their burden.
The same quantum of assistance will also be provided to approximately 12 million micro and small businesses across Indonesia, he added.
Related news: Small traders get working capital assistance of Rp2.4 million
Translator: Hanni Sofia/Aria Cindyara
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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