JK: It is Difficult for People from Outside Java to Become President

Jakarta, VIVA – Former Indonesian Vice Presidents (Wapres), Jusuf Kalla (JK), stated that individuals originating from outside the island of Java find it difficult to become President of Indonesia.

This was conveyed by JK while delivering a speech at a celebration event for its 84th anniversary held at his residence in South Jakarta, Saturday, May 16, 2026.

JK initially recounted his entry into the world of politics. At that time, JK was invited to join the government of the 4th President of Indonesia, Abdurrahman Wahid or Gus Dur.

“When I entered politics, it wasn’t intentional. I was asked by a member of the MPR (People’s Consultative Assembly) representing the region. Suddenly, Mr. Gus Dur proposed a cabinet, and he said, ‘Who can represent Eastern Indonesia?’ Only one person could, and that was me. So, I joined the cabinet,” said JK.

JK’s political career continued, starting as a member of the DPR (House of Representatives) to becoming Minister of Social Welfare.

After gaining sufficient experience, JK decided to participate in the Presidential election but only as Vice President.

JK is known to have served as Vice President accompanying President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) during the 2004-2009 period. He was then reappointed as Vice President accompanying Joko Widodo (Jokowi) as President in the 2014-2019 period.

“So, I was a member of the DPR first, then Minister, then Coordinating Minister for Social Welfare, and finally Vice President,” he said.

JK admitted that he had tried to run in the 2009 Presidential election with Wiranto as his running mate. However, he was not successful in becoming the number one person in the country.

According to JK, regional origin remains a challenge for figures from outside Java to win the Presidential election.

“I failed to become President. Indeed, we people from outside Java still find it quite difficult; it’s a tough challenge,” he concluded.

(tvOnenews.com / Aldi Herlanda)