A Series of Post-Retirement Activities in Solo by Jokowi
Joko Widodo: A New Chapter After Presidency in Solo, Indonesia
October 25, 2024 – Solo, Indonesia
As the sun set on October 20, 2024, Joko Widodo, affectionately known as Jokowi, officially stepped down from his role as the seventh President of the Republic of Indonesia. This pivotal moment in Indonesian politics not only heralds the end of a significant chapter but also marks a new beginning for Jokowi and his family in their hometown of Solo. Upon his return to his residence in Sumber, Jokowi expressed a heartfelt desire for simplicity, telling journalists, “I already told you that I want to sleep,” underscoring his intention to embrace a quieter lifestyle after years of public service.
In the days following his retirement, however, Jokowi was not inclined to retreat into solitude. The former president engaged in a variety of activities that showcased not only his roots but also his sustained commitment to public life. His return to Solo, a city with which he has had a lengthy and intricate relationship, has brought him an opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and cherished places.
Relishing Local Flavors in Kartasura
Just two days after leaving office, Jokowi, alongside his wife Iriana, made a nostalgic visit to Sate Kambing Mas Di, a renowned local establishment in Kartasura, Sukoharjo. Their breakfast, consisting of favored dishes such as buntel satay, tongseng, and curry, highlighted Jokowi’s long-standing patronage of the restaurant, dating back to his days as a furniture businessman before entering politics. Restaurant staff noted the noticeable differences in his visit post-presidency, where his entourage consisted of only a handful of guards, reflecting a newfound privacy and approachability that the former leader had missed during his years in the presidential limelight.
Prior to his presidency, Jokowi was known to frequent Sate Kambing Mas Di regularly, establishing strong connections with the community. His recent visit was emblematic of his desire to embrace a more ordinary life, even as he retains his influence and significance in Indonesian society. “It arrived immediately, like a regular guest. We walked in and ordered immediately. We were really surprised,” one employee remarked, illustrating the joy both Jokowi and the staff relished in this return to normalcy.
Diplomacy at Home: Meeting the UAE Minister
Shortly after his publicized breakfast, Jokowi welcomed Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to his residence. Accompanied by the Acting Mayor of Solo, Dhoni Widianto, the Sheikh’s visit highlighted Indonesia’s growing ties with the UAE, especially regarding the construction of the Emirates-Indonesia Cardiology Hospital in Solo. This initiative signifies not only infrastructural development but also a deepening of diplomatic and cultural relations between the two nations.
During their meeting, Jokowi emphasized the significance of the Sheikh’s contributions to Solo’s health sector, stating, “The development of the Emirates-Indonesia Cardiology Hospital is very good,” showcasing the collaborative spirit that has characterized Indonesian foreign relations under his administration. The Sheikh’s visit was fruitful, allowing both leaders to discuss ongoing and future projects aimed at bolstering the region’s healthcare capabilities.
A Spiritual Reflection: Prayer at Sheikh Zayed Mosque
On October 25, just five days after retiring, Jokowi was seen participating in Friday prayers at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Solo, accompanied by his youngest son, Kaesang Pangarep. The event was arranged spontaneously, reflecting Jokowi’s organic approach to returning to his community’s spiritual life. The mosque’s operations director noted that the former president’s visit came as a surprise but was welcomed by the staff, a testament to the respect and affection held for Jokowi in his local context.
In an exchange with the mosque’s management, Jokowi inquired about upcoming events and planned visits from UAE scholars, reinforcing his intention to maintain active engagement with his community. By participating in prayer and community events, Jokowi aims to reconnect with his constituents, emphasizing the need for spiritual grounding even amidst the chaos of political life.
Conclusion
The transition from presidency to private life is an adjustment faced by many leaders worldwide. For Joko Widodo, his foray into retirement is marked by a heartfelt return to a community that has been instrumental in his success. By embracing local traditions and continuing to nurture diplomatic relations, Jokowi sets a poignant example of how former leaders can engage meaningfully with both their origins and their legacies. As he embarks on this new journey, the people of Solo, and indeed Indonesia, watch with anticipation to see what initiatives and projects he may champion next in their shared goal of progress and unity.
Tags: #BusinessNews, #PeopleCultureNews, #Indonesia
