Jokowi Appreciates Regional Heads to Hold Autonomy Expo: Can Move the Economy, But Remember Health is Number One!

JAKARTA – President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) expressed his appreciation to the Association of Indonesian Regency Governments (Apkasi) who took the initiative to hold the 2021 Autonomy Expo. According to the President, this step can be a real effort to support recovery during the current pandemic.

"First of all, I appreciate Apkasi who has the desire to immediately move the economy in the region, among others, through organizing this expo," said Jokowi when giving a speech at the opening of the 2021 Autonomy Expo, which was broadcast virtually, Wednesday, October 20.

The President also praised the regional focus which encourages three priority sectors as levers of strategic economic activity.

I agree (to optimize) trade, tourism, and investment, which must be started, not too late," he said.

However, the Head of State advised continuing to prioritize the safety aspect of the community when spurring economic activity back in the current pandemic situation.

"But with notes, health remains number one. The economy needs to be activated by staying alert to health problems, discipline in health protocols, and also vaccinations that must be continued quickly," said Jokowi.

For information, the Expo Autonomy Application (AOE 2021) is the implementation of one of the organization's tasks in facilitating commodity, investment and tourism promotion activities. This forum is an ideal forum for Apkasi members which includes 416 district governments throughout Indonesia to maximize their potential.

This exhibition is actually an annual event. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, last year's event had to be canceled.

Meanwhile, for this year the activity was held by implementing strict health procedures and protocols according to the rules from the central government. AOE 2021 itself will last for three days, glorious October 20-22 2021, at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) Convention Center, Senayan Jakarta.