Magelang – Hundreds of residents of Bandongan District, Central Java, Monday (29/1) shared their joy when President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto stopped by to eat meatball together at one of the street food stalls.
Jokowi and Prabowo arrived at Bakso Pak Sholeh Bandongan stall, after inaugurating the main building of the Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang. They sat at the same table facing each other and each enjoyed a portion of meatballs and young coconut water.
While Jokowi and Prabowo were seen chatting while eating the most famous meatballs in Bandongan, the gathered residents were scrambling to capture the moment. Not only that, since Prabowo arrived, they shouted to greet and shake hands directly. “I love you, Mr. Prabowo,” shouted the young women in the crowd.
There were also some men and young people shouting Prabowo’s name to get attention and be approached by the Minister of Defense. “Mr. Minister of Defense, Mr. Minister of Defense! Shake hands, Sir! Here on the side, not yet (get a turn),” said a young man in a black t-shirt while raising both hands enthusiastically.
One of the native residents of Bandongan, Risma (33), admitted that she was very happy today to have the opportunity to see Jokowi and Prabowo. It was the first time she had met them in person, as she usually only saw them on television and social media videos.
“I’m so happy. I got to shake hands (with Prabowo),” said Risma.
She thought that Prabowo is similar to Jokowi, warm and friendly with the people. “(Turns out) just like Mr. Jokowi, (Prabowo) is really friendly with the people,” she said.
Risma also hoped that in the future, if Prabowo was entrusted to be the president, he could succeed in the programs initiated by Jokowi. It is also important to always remember the people.
“Only Mr. Prabowo who will continue Mr. Jokowi’s programs. I support it. I hope he remains close to the people,” she concluded. (SENOPATI)
