Nadiem Makarim Claims His Doubters Become His Source of Energy

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The appointing of Nadiem Makarim as the new Minister of Education and Cultural Affairs attracted major attention from members of the public with others doubting his capacity to execute the daunting task faced by the founder of ride-hailing giant, GoJek.

“I personally like things that are complicated and difficult, the more people say that it’s impossible or improbable, the more I am happy with it,” said Nadiem in his Ministry’s meeting with the House of Representatives (DPR) Commission X on Wednesday, November 6. 

Nadiem was appointed by President Jokowi - who is serving his second and final term in office - as a State Minister on October 23, 2019. He effectively replaces former education minister Muhadjir Effendy.

“I faced similar situations in the past. It serves as energy for myself which drives me to be even more determined to overcome problems,” said Nadiem Makarim. 

In leading his first official work meeting, the Minister presented his adaptation of the five visions of President Jokowi upon creating competitive human resources and a number of programs the education and cultural affairs ministry offers. 

Nadiem Makarim asserted that the president’s vision will be adapted into five programs that consist of character building, deregulation and adhocracy, boosting investment and innovation, creating job opportunities, and technological empowerment. 

MOH KHORY ALFARIZI