Jokowi's Visit to NTT Seen by PSI as More Than Political Gathering

Ahead of the 7th President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo’s (Jokowi) visit to East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on 31 July to 1 August 2026, the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has stated that the moment serves as an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between Jokowi and the people of eastern Indonesia.

PSI Daily Chair Ahmad Ali said the visit should not only be seen as a political gathering but also holds a deeper meaning when connected to the cultural philosophy of the NTT community, particularly the elephant tusk tradition in East Flores and Lamaholot. “The visit of the 7th President of the Republic of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, to East Nusa Tenggara on Friday–Saturday, 31 July–1 August 2026, can be interpreted not only as a political gathering agenda, but also as a momentum to re-strengthen the emotional bond with the people of NTT,” he said.

Ahmad Ali explained that the elephant tusk is a symbol of honour, responsibility, commitment, and trust passed down through generations. He noted that these values are also relevant in political life, as public trust must be maintained through concrete actions. He assessed that the track record of development during Jokowi’s two terms in office, including infrastructure, connectivity, dams, tourism destination development, and social programmes in NTT, forms part of the foundation of this relationship.

Therefore, he believes the visit can be seen as an effort to maintain the closeness with the community that was built during his administration. Ahmad Ali also remarked that politics is ultimately measured by a leader’s ability to maintain public trust, not merely through symbols or political identity. He stated that the philosophy of the tusk teaches that honour must be upheld through action, just as the people’s trust can only be maintained through tangible work felt directly by the community. Jokowi’s visit to NTT is scheduled to take place from Friday to Saturday, 31 July–1 August 2026.