Minister Susi Defends Jokowi over Malaysian Media Mockery
1 December 2014 23:48 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Fishery and Maritime Affairs Minister Susi Pudjiastuti responded strongly to the statement of Malaysian media Utusan.com that attacked President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) about Indonesia’s policy in the maritime sector.
Susi defended Jokowi by saying that the government has to take a stern action against both foreigners and Indonesians who potentially jeopardize the maritime sovereignty of Indonesia.
Susi also reiterated her plan to sink any foreign ships that violate Indonesia’s sovereignty and Indonesia’s laws.
"We’re just doing what we have to do as a sovereign maritime nation,” Susi said after attending the National Fish Day event at Parkir Timur Senayan, Sunday, November 30, 2014.
According to Susi, the sinking of those ships is one of the efforts to safeguard the Indonesia’s maritime sovereignty so that the world acknowledges that.
"When it comes to sovereignty, there is no compromise,” Susi said.
Previously, Malaysian online media Utusan.com said that President Joko Widodo intended to have a confrontation with the country and Jokowi, the media said, is an 'arrogant' leader due to his 'good' connection with the United States.
DEVY ERNIS