TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko Widodo`s (Jokowi) decision to join mass prayers at the National Monument (Monas) square in Central Jakarta on Friday reflected the bond between leaders and people, Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Luhut Binsar Panjaitan said.

The decision negated the view that a gap had emerged between the president and the people, Luhut stated at his office here on Friday (Dec. 2).

"Some people were claiming there has emerged a gap between the president and the people. That is not true. As we all know, the president came (to the venue) and shook hands (with participants). I was also there. It is good, isnt it?" he exclaimed.

The presidents decision to meet those who participated in the mass prayer event was good, he noted, adding that the president expressed gratitude to the participants of the event and the move will help build a sense of togetherness.

Earlier, the head of state highly appreciated those performing the mass prayers in a peaceful manner and the fact that they prayed for the states and the nations safety.

Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saifuddin observed earlier that the president decided to attend the event after considering the views of many sides.

"It is the President himself who decided (to do so) after considering views of many sides," he revealed.

The president took the decision shortly before the adzan (prayer call) for Friday prayers, the minister pointed out.

ANTARA