Melinda Gates Praises Indonesia's Financial Inclusion Program During Meeting With Jokowi
Jakarta. Melinda Gates, wife of Microsoft founder Bill Gates, praised the Indonesian government's financial inclusion program during a meeting with President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo in Jakarta on Thursday (23/03).
Jokowi and Gates met at Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport in East Jakarta prior to the president's departure to the Riau Islands for a work visit.
Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Darmin Nasution explained that Gates's visit was related to the goals of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to eradicate poverty and narrow the economic gap.
"[The foundation] pays attention to other issues, especially financial inclusion and the eradication of poverty. They have discussed various issues with the president to find the areas where they can assist with Indonesia's programs," Darmin said.
Jokowi and Gates also discussed the government's social aid programs, including the Indonesia Smart Card (KIP), Indonesia Health Card (KIS) and Family Hope Program (PKH).
Jokowi initiated these cashless programs to provide social assistance to those living in poverty.
The government distributes the cards to eligible recipients across the archipelago. However, they are not allowed to cash in the benefits provided with these cards.
The American philanthropist praised the program and added that her foundation was willing to support it.
Such a partnership will help the government achieve its goal of 75 percent of the country's people having bank accounts by 2019, from only 36 percent currently.
Watch Indonesia Highlights at 8 p.m. tonight on the Jakarta Globe News Channel and Facebook Live to find out more about the meeting between President Joko Widodo and Melinda Gates.
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