Why Jokowi Received 'King' Title in NTT and 'Baginda' in Lampung: PSI Explains
Former President Joko Widodo, also known as Jokowi, has once again received a traditional title during a visit to a region after stepping down as head of state. Most recently, Jokowi was granted the title ‘Saudara Raja Raja Timor’ (Brother of the Kings of Timor) during a cultural carnival held in Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), on Saturday (1/8/2026).
The Daily Chair of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) DPP, Ahmad Ali, assessed that the respect shown by traditional communities in various regions to Jokowi reflects that a leader’s track record continues to live on, even after their term of office ends. He said this also proves that the results of Jokowi’s work are still felt by the public.
“The people always have a way of appreciating leaders who work earnestly. They do not only remember speeches, but also remember the results of the work they feel in their daily lives,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (4/8/2026).
It is known that Jokowi was honoured as ‘Saudara Raja Raja Timor’ by the kings from several kingdoms on Timor Island, including Amanatun, Malaka, Amanuban, Mollo, Biboki, Bikomi Nilulat, Amfoang, Kupang, and Amarasi. The traditional leaders stated that the honour was given as a form of appreciation for the development they felt during Jokowi’s leadership, particularly in East Nusa Tenggara.
Previously, the Kedatun Keagungan Lampung also bestowed the traditional title ‘Baginda Pemuka Bangsa’ upon Jokowi. Lampung traditional leaders said the title is the highest honour given for Jokowi’s service while leading Indonesia.
According to Ahmad Ali, both events share a similar pattern. He assessed that the honour for Jokowi did not arise because of his status as a former president, but because the public still feels the benefits of the development carried out during his decade-long administration.
He cited NTT as an example, noting it became one of the regions that experienced significant transformation during Jokowi’s administration. “That is why his arrival today is not merely a visit from a former President, but a visit from a leader who once left a trail of development that is still felt by the community,” he said.