Jakarta. The clock is ticking for Gibran Rakabuming, the running mate of presidential hopeful Prabowo Subianto, to take the stage at the debate at the Jakarta Convention Center on Friday evening.

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo told reporters that he did not give any special advice for his son Gibran.

“Well, if they want to debate, go on. A debate is a debate, that’s all,” Jokowi said shortly after attending an economic conference in Jakarta.

Jokowi admitted it had been long since he met Gibran in person.

“[He did not ask for blessing]. Just the usual. We haven’t even met in a while. What advice? Debate is just a debate,” Jokowi said.

Jokowi is not planning to watch the debate in person. The president said: “Where will I be watching it from? At home. It can be in Jakarta, Bogor, or Solo.”

The upcoming debate will zero in on economic issues ranging from the digital economy, finance, investment, tax policies, trade, state budget management, and infrastructure to urban development. 

The 36-year-old Gibran, with experience as Solo Mayor and entrepreneur, will get to speak first in the debate. Gibran will face politician Muhaimin Iskandar and Chief Security Affairs Minister Mahfud MD. Muhaimin is the running mate to Anies Baswedan, while Mahfud is the vice presidential candidate to Ganjar Pranowo. 

Gibran Center, the veep candidate’s supporters, said Friday that Jokowi’s son would likely focus on developing the digital economy to spur an inclusive economy in tonight’s debate. He will also discuss digital infrastructure and data security, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, according to news agency Antara. Gibran is also expected to talk about entrepreneurship programs as well as initiatives to add more value to Indonesia's abundant natural resources.

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