Indonesian politician defends his meeting with Donald Trump

JAKARTA, Indonesia — Deputy Speaker of the House Fadli Zon finally speaks up on the Donald Trump controversy.

The controversy began when Zon was spotted at a press conference by media mogul and presidential candidate Donald Trump, together with Speaker of the House Setya Novanto, during a recent visit by the House of Representatives of Indonesia (DPR) to the United States.

Zon, during a press conference in Jakarta on Monday, September 14, explained that the meeting with Trump was not the only agenda of the DPR during their visit.

During their visit to the US, Zon said the DPR held a meeting with the Senate to discuss trade and regional issues. The DPR also met with the US House of Representatives, a meeting that included himself, Novanto and the Speaker of the House, John Boehner. 

“There are concrete results from this meeting. One of them is cooperation to develop our expert staff. There will be internship programs,” Zon said. 

Zon said they also disccused the economic state of Indonesia with Boehner.

The visit stirred negative reactions from netizens, who questioned who funded the trip and why they appeared a the conference, arguing their appearance may suggest an endorsement of Trump.

Investigation

DPR also held a meeting with the United States-Indonesia Society (USINDO).

USINDO is a non-profit organization founded in 1994 by Indonesian citizens and Americans who have lived in both countries.

“We had a discussion with USINDO. The president is David Merril. This meeting was paid for by their own fund. There are business people, politicians and investors. The Speaker of the House (Novanto) became the main speaker in this meeting,” Zon said. 

The DPR Honorary Council is investigating the visit after some DPR members reported their disapproval to the council, fearing an ethical violation.

Novanto said he is ready to accept the council’s decision towards the case.

“I will fully accept the council’s decision. This proves that I, as the Speaker of the House, appreciate the task and authority of the council,” Novanto said. — Rappler.com