Joko Widodo Biography: Religion, Age, Children, Wife, Net Worth, Education, Wikipedia, Pronunciation

Biography

Joko Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi, was born on June 21, 1961, in Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia. As a politician and businessman, he became a key political figure, becoming Indonesia’s seventh President in 2014—a historic milestone as the first leader without a military background or elite political connections.

Jokowi‘s political journey began at the local level, where he was elected mayor of Surakarta in 2005. He quickly gained a reputation for his practical, down-to-earth approach, emphasizing improvements in urban services, cultural initiatives, and community engagement. His popularity soared when he became the Governor of Jakarta in 2012, mainly due to his “blusukan” style—conducting unannounced visits to inspect public projects and directly address grassroots concerns.

In his 2014 presidential campaign, Jokowi focused on anti-corruption, economic growth, and enhancing public services, appealing to many Indonesians weary of conventional political practices. His presidency has emphasized infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and strengthening Indonesia’s international relations, especially with the U.S. and China.

However, his administration has faced criticism for perceived democratic erosion, particularly regarding the management of political power within his inner circle, including controversies surrounding political appointments and family involvement in governance.

President of the Republic of Indonesia

Joko Widodo
Wiki Facts & About Data
Real Name:	Joko Widodo
Stage Name:	Jokowi
Born:	21 June 1961 (age 63 years old)
Place of Birth:	Surakarta City, Indonesia
Nationality:	Indonesian
Education:	Gadjah Mada University
Height:	1.75 m
Parents:	Widjiatno Notomihardjo, Sujiatmi Notomihardjo
Siblings:	Idayati, Iit Sriyantini, Titik Relawati
Spouse:	Iriana Joko Widodo (m. 1986)
Girlfriend • Partner:	N/A
Children:	Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Kaesang Pangarep, Kahiyang Ayu
Occupation:	Politician • Businessman
Net Worth:	$3.5 million (USD)

Early Life & Education

Joko Widodo, widely known as Jokowi, was born on June 21, 1961, in Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia. As a member of the Javanese ethnicity, which is deeply intertwined with Indonesian culture, he practices a moderate form of Islam that aligns with his vision of fostering an inclusive society.

Joko Widodo‘s father, Widjiatno Notomihardjo, was a furniture craftsman, while his mother, Sudjiatmi Notomihardjo, assisted in managing the family business, which also served as a community gathering place. This upbringing instilled in Jokowi a profound understanding of ordinary Indonesians’ daily lives and challenges, significantly shaping his political values. He has three siblings: Idayati, Iit Sriyantini, and Titik Relawati.

Jokowi‘s education began in local schools in Solo, where he immersed himself in Javanese culture and language alongside the standard Indonesian curriculum. He later attended Gadjah Mada University in Yogyakarta, initially studying forestry before transitioning to wood engineering, reflecting his practical approach to aligning his education with the family business.

From a young age, Jokowi worked in the family furniture business, gaining firsthand experience in entrepreneurship, management, and the importance of community relations. This practical experience, combined with his grassroots engagement during his youth, has profoundly influenced his political philosophy, emphasizing practical solutions, economic development, and active engagement with the common people.

Career

Joko Widodo, widely known as Jokowi, has forged an impressive political career, rising from humble beginnings to become one of Indonesia’s most influential leaders. Born on June 21, 1961, in Surakarta, Central Java, he entered politics after a successful business career in the furniture industry, which shaped his practical approach to governance—a hallmark of his leadership.

Jokowi‘s political journey began with his election as Mayor of Surakarta, where he implemented significant urban renewal projects that enhanced public services, education, and healthcare. His hands-on, grassroots governance style earned him widespread acclaim. His ascent continued when he was elected Governor of Jakarta, where he focused on infrastructure improvements, corruption reduction, and engaging directly with the public through spontaneous visits known locally as “blusukan.”

His presidency started with high expectations for reform, concentrating on infrastructure development, economic growth, and anti-corruption initiatives. Notable projects during his administration included plans to relocate the capital to Borneo to alleviate congestion and environmental challenges in Jakarta. Despite facing criticism for not sufficiently addressing democratic backsliding, his first term was marked by economic progress and strengthened international diplomacy.

In his second term, Jokowi emphasized infrastructure and economic development, working to elevate Indonesia’s global standing. This includes high-profile diplomatic engagements with leaders such as Zelenskyy and Putin. His legacy remains mixed; while he enjoys popularity for his economic policies and connection with the people, he has faced critiques regarding dynastic politics and the perceived erosion of democratic principles.

Jokowi has initiated large-scale infrastructure projects throughout his presidency to enhance Indonesia’s connectivity and economic potential, contributing to significant GDP growth, although economic inequality persists. He has also worked to enhance Indonesia’s role on the international stage, balancing relationships with major powers like the U.S. and China. His approachability and direct engagement with citizens have been both an asset and a point of criticism, raising concerns about the personalization of politics.

Jokowi‘s tenure has been transformative, with infrastructure initiatives setting a new standard for development in Indonesia. However, allegations of favoritism toward family members in political appointments have drawn criticism, suggesting a shift toward dynastic politics. While his economic policies have successfully spurred growth, they have also raised concerns about environmental sustainability and the equitable distribution of wealth.

Social Media

• Instagram: Joko Widodo (@jokowi)
• Twitter: Joko Widodo (@jokowi) / X
• Facebook: Presiden Joko Widodo

Personal Life

Joko Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi, has been married to Iriana Joko Widodo since December 22, 1986. Iriana was born in Surakarta on October 1, 1963, making her 61 years old. She graduated from State High School No. 3 in Solo in 1983 and pursued further studies at Muhammadiyah University of Surakarta but did not complete her degree, choosing instead to marry Jokowi. Their marriage has seen Iriana involved in various social and welfare programs, particularly as the First Lady of Indonesia, leading initiatives like the PKK (Family Welfare Education Movement).

Jokowi and Iriana have three children. Their eldest, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, born on October 1, 1987, has ventured into politics and business, marrying Selvi Ananda, who converted from Catholicism to Islam before marriage. Their daughter, Kahiyang Ayu, born on April 20, 1992, married Bobby Afif Nasution in 2017, with both obtaining master’s degrees together in 2019. The youngest, Kaesang Pangarep, born on December 25, 1994, has shown interest in business and public life, marrying Erina Sofia Gudono.

Net Worth

Joko Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi, has publicly disclosed his net worth as part of his political career transparency measures. As of a 2018 report, Jokowi declared his net worth to be approximately Rp 50.25 billion (equivalent to about US$3.5 million at that time), mostly comprised of property holdings in Central Java and Jakarta.

This disclosure reflects his assets before his second term as President of Indonesia, indicating a modest increase from previous years, considering his income as president and other investments or assets might have accumulated.