Jakarta (ANTARA News) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has urged regional and deputy heads to continue to adopt a "cordial" approach while carrying out duties until the end of their tenure.

"I urge the district governors and their representatives to continue to function as one unit. It should not happen that they were cordial at first but later on infringed. Things such as this should not happen," the president stated at the State Palace here on Friday.

President Jokowi made the statement at the 2016 Government Working Meeting with all governors, deputy governors, district heads, and deputy district heads who were elected during the 2015 simultaneous regional elections.

The head of state noted that the performance of regional leaders was being closely watched by the people who had laid their trust on them.

Jokowi also requested the regional and deputy heads of the region to embrace their political opponents in the election battle.

"Elections are held every five years. We need to end the fight as the people will gain nothing out of it," the president stated at the event, which was also attended by Vice President Jusuf Kalla.

Jokowi also urged that local officials, who did not offer their support during the regional elections, should not be transferred to a remote location.

On the occasion, the head of state also warned that economic growth and inflation in the region could affect the nation.

"The realization of the regional budget will support the local economy. Do not follow the old pattern," the president stated.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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