The role of the country's 461 district heads, grouped in the Association of Indonesia's District Adminsitrations (Apkasi), was crucial amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Jokowi stated in his video remarks to congratulate Apkasi on its 21st anniversary.
Chairman of Apkasi Sutan Riska Tuanku Kerajaan, in his statement here on Tuesday, welcomed the president's directives and expressed readiness to implement them along with Apkasi members.
"President Jokowi has advised district heads to continue to maintain public health while restoring the economy in the regions during the celebration of the 21st anniversary of Apkasi on May 31, 2021," he noted.
The head of state reminded the district heads to establish sound synergy and coordination with the provincial and central governments in the COVID-19 handling and economic recovery efforts.
Furthermore, they must be innovative and find breakthroughs rather than get trapped in routine bureaucratic activities in order to provide more effective and outstanding services to the community, Jokowi remarked.
Apkasi's anniversary this year is themed "Awakening Regions, Boosting the Economy" to demonstrate the association's support to the government's programs in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and in achieving economic recovery.
"We are attempting to become a strategic partner for the central government, provincial governments, and the private sector in realizing the dream of improving the welfare of the people in regions," Kerajaan, who is the district head of Dharmasraya, noted.
Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian reminded that Apkasi was established to support and oversee the implementation of the regional autonomy by providing opportunities for district heads to become more capable and flexible in using their authority.
"With this authority, district heads are expected to be able to develop all the potential that exists in their respective regions. Hence, it is hoped that each region would be able to develop and become more prosperous and independent," Karnavian remarked.
Apkasi's role is also highly expected, particularly in controlling the spread of COVID-19 and restoring the regional economy that accumulatively contributes at the national level, the minister affirmed. Related news: Jokowi explains prevailing economic condition to district heads
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EDITED BY INE
Translator: Hanni Sofia, Fardah
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
