All pillars of our lives are tested. Our patience, resilience, togetherness, and intelligence are being tested and sharpened at the same timeJakarta (ANTARA) - Crises, recessions, and pandemics are like fire, so they should be avoided if possible, though if they recur, then several things can be learnt, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) noted in his state of the nation address.
“Fire does burn, but it illuminates at the same time. If it is controlled, it can inspire and motivate. Fire is painful, but at the same time, it is also strengthening," Jokowi remarked during his state address at the annual session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) and Joint Session of the House of Representatives (DPR) and the Regional Representatives Council (DPD) at the Parliamentary Complex, here on Monday.
The president remarked that this pandemic should be a time for all parties to conduct introspection and improvement as well as bolster themselves to tackle future challenges.
According to Jokowi, the pandemic was akin to a testing ground that tests, teaches, and strengthens the people of the country.
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The pandemic is exacting a heavy toll on all, placing a burden full of risks, and compelling all to face and manage it, he emphasized.
"All pillars of our lives are tested. Our patience, resilience, togetherness, and intelligence are being tested and sharpened at the same time," Jokowi stressed.
The COVID-19 pandemic has tested and sharpened people at the same time. During challenging times, it not only places a burden but also offers opportunities for bringing about an improvement.
"When the test feels more difficult, it also sharpens us at the same time. That is the process of becoming a resilient and strong nation to win the battle against this pandemic," he stated.
During the annual speech to a limited number of invitees, President Jokowi wore a traditional Baduy outfit.
Present at the state speech were Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia, Professor K.H. Ma'ruf Amin and Mrs. Wury Estu Ma'ruf Amin; the chairman, deputy chairmen, and members of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) of the Republic of Indonesia; the chairman, deputy chairmen, and members of the House of Representatives (DPR) of the Republic of Indonesia; the chairman, deputy chairmen, and members of the Regional Representatives Council (DPD) of the Republic of Indonesia; and the chairman, deputy chairmen, and members of state institutions.
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Also present virtually were the fifth President of the Republic of Indonesia, Megawati Soekarnoputri; sixth President of the Republic of Indonesia Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono: former vice presidents Try Sutrisno and Hamzah Haz; Muhammad Jusuf Kalla and Mrs. Mufidah Jusuf Kalla; Boediono and Mrs. Herawati Boediono; and the wife of former president Hajah Shinta Nuriyah Abdurrahman Wahid
Several ambassadors of friendly countries and representatives of international agencies and organizations were also present.
In addition, ministers , commander of the Indonesian Defense Forces, the National Police chief, as well as the chairman of Political Parties partook in the annual session.
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Translator: Hanni S, Resinta S
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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