Surakarta. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo conveyed New Year's greetings for 2024 through his Instagram account @jokowi on Monday. In his post, Jokowi expressed his optimism that Indonesia is ready to face various challenges in the future after successfully navigating through the difficult times of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Jokowi also reflected on the journey throughout 2023, filled with hard work to recover from the setbacks caused by the pandemic and prolonged drought, all amid a global situation rife with uncertainty. Jokowi acknowledged that Indonesia was able to overcome these challenges through unity and collaboration. 

"Today, with our heads held high, we step into the year 2024 with enthusiasm and optimism, believing that Indonesia has been on the right path and is ready to face any challenges in the future," wrote Jokowi.

Jokowi also hoped for a smooth 2024 elections, which are just 45 days away. Over 204 million eligible voters scattered across 38 provinces and the participation of 18 national political parties and 6 local parties in Aceh, will cast their votes in Feb. 14, 2024.

The President called on the General Election Commission (KPU) to diligently perform their duties and manage the upcoming election with meticulous attention to prevent oversights or technical errors. He emphasized the potential political implications of technical negligence, highlighting the risk of disrupting the country's stability and undermining the election's legitimacy.

"I call upon all stakeholders to collaborate in safeguarding and supporting the smooth conduct of the 2024 elections. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of maintaining neutrality by all civil servants, military personnel, and police officers involved in the electoral process," Jokowi said in his Instagram post on Sunday.

Jokowi Celebrates New Year's Eve in Hometown
President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) greeted the public and bought snacks in his hometown of Surakarta, Central Java, during the New Year's Eve celebration. According to a press release received in Jakarta on Monday, Jokowi visited stalls selling snacks such as rolled eggs, sausages, and corndogs at the Ngarsopuro Night Market in Surakarta.

Sasongko, a corndog seller, expressed happiness as the President bought his snacks. "The President bought five corndogs and five fish cakes. So happy, Alhamdulillah. Thank you, Mr. Jokowi," said Sasongko.

Jokowi also visited several sellers of temulawak (Javanese ginger) and was immediately interested in buying them. During the visit, the people of Surakarta were enthusiastic in welcoming President Jokowi. The Head of State also approached a visitor named Nafiah who shouted his name. Nafiah expressed joy and disbelief at meeting President Jokowi while wanting to celebrate the New Year.

"My child wants to celebrate the New Year and see the fireworks. I didn't expect to meet Mr. Jokowi and ask for a photo. Oh God, I'm nervous," exclaimed Nafiah enthusiastically.

After touring the area, President Jokowi returned to his residence. The people then enjoyed the beauty of the fireworks in the city of Surakarta.

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