The nine areas were economic growth, poverty alleviation, employment opportunities, energy, food and water sufficiency, education, health services, basic infrastructure development, public services and prevention of corruption.
Nusa Dua, Bali (ANTARA News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has asked all district heads and city mayors in the country to address nine areas seriously to improve the people`s welfare.

"If you would seriously address the nine areas, the people will be very grateful to you," the President told district heads and city mayors attending the 7th National Meeting of the All-Indonesia Association of District Administrators (APKASI) here on Friday.

The nine areas were economic growth, poverty alleviation, employment opportunities, energy, food and water sufficiency, education, health services, basic infrastructure development, public services and prevention of corruption.

President Yudhoyono on the occasion also called on district heads and city mayors to be strong, resilient and tough in leading the people in the current democracy era.

"In the era of democracy like now whatever you do you will be criticized, blamed and even cursed. But I hope you will stick to the principle that `the show must go on`. Keep doing your best and work honestly for the people," he said.

President Yudhoyono said he was aware that the problems district chiefs and mayors had to deal with were not always easy but this should not make them surrender.

As persons who were just carrying out mandates, the president, the vice president and regional leaders must always prioritize duties and responsibilities and put their rights and authorities behind, he said. "Do not reverse this order of things," he said.

As an example President Yudhoyono referred to the presidential authority which had been reduced following four constitutional amendments.

"As president, I have never questioned this reduction in presidential powers and only carry out what is left fully, with all my heart," he said.

President Yudhoyono said one of the authorities, duties and responsibilities of a president was wielding administrative power.

"So we are in the same boat. We must be together, cooperate, build synergy. Like sailing around on wide ocean facing storms, waves, rocks and other challenges, we must cooperate so that our sails will not tear apart, the boat will not break into pieces and sink but continue to move forward to reach the coast. Let us build the spirit of togetherness," he told around 399 district heads and city mayors.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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