Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia after the Inauguration of the Surabaya Nusantara Student Dormitory (AMN) and the Launching of Construction of the Manado and Makassar AMN in Surabaya City, East Java Province, November 29, 2022

President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo

This is the first Nusantara Student Dormitory (AMN) that we have built. Next, we will continue the construction in Makassar, Manado, Bantul, Malang, Jakarta as well as in other regions. What is the purpose? Students are coming from Sabang to Merauke, from Miangas to Rote Island (west to east and north to south Indonesia). They are all staying here at the AMN. What for? To help them get to know one another better. Since we have huge diversity, this kind of dormitory is needed. There shouldn’t be a dormitory that is intended for only one province or one city so that [the students] do not know each other’s ethnics, religions, provinces, regions. Indeed, that is the purpose. Later on in the near future, since we know each other better, know each other’s customs and traditions, and are open to each other; we will unite and live in harmony.

Journalist

While Pak Prabowo is here, I would like to ask you about issue on presidential candidates, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo

Pardon me?

Journalist

There is a news that Pak Prabowo will run with Pak Ganjar. Do you have any opinion about it, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo

As I had said previously, I have checked that Pak Prabowo also has wrinkles on his forehead. Yes, he does. Then, I checked his hair, I also found his hair white. Some of his hair already turned white. That’s like what I have said. I thank you. (AP/HD/LW)