Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) hosted a meeting with Lippo Group founder Mochtar Riady and his family at his residence in Solo, Central Java. Jokowi shared the event on his Instagram account, @jokowi, showing him seated with the Riady family around a long table, all wearing batik attire. Jokowi expressed gratitude for Mochtar Riady’s visit, especially considering his age of 95. Mochtar Riady, the founder of the Lippo Group, is known for diversifying his business into sectors like property, banking, healthcare, education, and retail. The Lippo Group began as a small shop in Jakarta and grew into a financial powerhouse, weathering the 1997 Asian financial crisis.
Title: Jokowi Meets with the Founder of Lippo Group and Family in Solo
Subtitle: Indonesian President’s Visit Strengthens Business and Cultural Ties
On his recent working visit to the city of Solo, Central Java, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, widely known as Jokowi, met with the founder of the Lippo Group, Mochtar Riady, and his family. The meeting, which took place at the Riady family’s residence in Solo, highlighted the strong relationships between the business community, the government, and the local community in Indonesia.
A Warm Welcome
Jokowi was greeted warmly by the Riady family, with Mochtar Riady himself adorning traditional Javanese attire to welcome the President. The meeting was also attended by Mochtar’s son, James Riady, who is the Vice Chairman of the Lippo Group, and other family members.
Talking Business and Culture
The meeting was an opportunity for both parties to discuss various issues, ranging from business developments to cultural preservation. Jokowi commended the Lippo Group’s continuous investment and contributions to Indonesia’s economic growth, notably in the retail and property sectors. The Lippo Group’s ventures, including the Lippo Shopping Center and the Lippo Village, have significantly contributed to Solo’s economic growth and job creation.
In turn, Mochtar Riady expressed his gratitude to the President for his leadership and commitment to infrastructure development and poverty alleviation. He also praised Jokowi’s efforts in promoting Indonesia’s tourism industry, noting that Solo, with its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, has considerable potential for further development in this area.
Cultural exchange
Beyond business, Jokowi and the Riady family also discussed the importance of preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage. Solo, as the cradle of Javanese culture, is known for its traditional arts, such as the Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) and the Reog Ponorogo dance. The President and the Riady family shared their appreciation for these cultural treasures and agreed on the need to preserve and promote them both nationally and internationally.
Strengthening ties
The meeting between Jokowi and the Riady family serves as a testament to the strong bond between the Indonesian government and the private sector. It highlights how public and private sectors can collaborate to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote cultural heritage. Moreover, it demonstrates Jokowi’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for businesses to thrive while preserving Indonesia’s cultural identity.
The visit ended with both parties expressing their enthusiasm for continued collaboration, ensuring that the spirit of unity and progress remains stronger than ever in Indonesia.
