Indonesia’s new president causes a buzz by flying economy

Indonesia’s new President Joko Widodo caused a stir this weekend by opting to fly economy class to watch his son’s high school graduation in Singapore, drawing praise and criticism online.

Indonesia’s new President Joko Widodo caused a stir this weekend by opting to fly economy class to watch his son’s high school graduation in Singapore, drawing praise and criticism online.

Indonesian-President-Joko-Widodo-popularly-known-as-Jokowi-center-and-his-wife-Iriana-right-attend-a-graduation-ceremony-of-the-International-Baccalaureate-Diploma-Programme-at-the-Anglo-Chinese-School-International-AP-Photo

Skipping the usual heavy security protocol for heads of state, Widodo and his wife Iriana queued for check-in at Jakarta airport like ordinary passengers before taking their economy seats.

Widodo is known for his common touch, and his family have maintained a modest lifestyle since he became leader of Southeast Asia’s biggest economy last month. His presence caused a buzz at the airport as passengers shouted and clamoured to shake his hand, with some taking selfies.

However, some thought it was a publicity stunt. “Sir, stop polishing your image, just act natural,” a man commented on a news portal. Harry Azet tweeted, “Living a fake life is difficult: Jokowi went to Singapore flying economy but slept in an expensive hotel.” Widodo stayed in a five-star hotel, an official confirmed.