Jokowi, proud owner of 20 pet frogs

JAKARTA. Jakarta Governor Joko “Jokowi” Widodo is showing his fondness for nature. To ensure that he could enjoy a natural environment in the heart of the city, the governor keeps 20 pet frogs in a fish pond in the garden of his residence in Menteng, Central Jakarta.

“I have various species, from Duttaphrynus [commonly called the Asian toad] to green frogs. I just love the sound of frogs — they brighten up the house,” he said.

Jokowi also has five cats in his home.

“The cats belong to my children. I myself used to have 60 pet cats. Apparently, my children inherited my love of pets,” he said.

Jokowi’s fondness for nature has been embodied in many of his public policies, including his program to redesign public parks in the capital such as National Monument (Monas) Park and Lansia Langsat Park in South Jakarta.

He also launched the establishment of several new public parks during his first year in office, in areas including Pluit, North Jakarta, and around the Ria-Rio Reservoir in East Jakarta.

He said he also planned to introduce cultural programs to enliven the new parks.

“Public parks should have community events and activities to attract locals. These kinds of events can reduce stress in the city, which is always so hot,” he said.