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Indonesian President Joko Widodo has adopted spirit of austerity by flying economy class. People around world have had to tighten their belts because of government cuts and higher taxes. Indonesia's leader has set example to other world leaders that presidents are not exempt from making personal cutbacks. He and his wife flew economy class last week to Singapore to attend his son's high-school graduation ceremony. Mr Widodo opted not to use official presidential airplane because his trip was of personal nature. couple paid for air tickets themselves but taxpayers footed bill for security officers who were on flight to protect the president.

The Widodos are becoming known for their down-to-earth living. They have led very modest lifestyle since he became leader of world's fourth most populous country last month. His wife Iriana is never seen in designer dresses and does lot of her shopping in Jakarta clothing market. There was mixed reaction on social media in Indonesia to couple flying economy, with some believing it was little more than publicity stunt. One man tweeted: "Living a fake life is difficult. Widodo went to Singapore flying economy but slept in expensive hotel." woman praised him, tweeting: "Widodo sets good example by flying economy. Hopefully other officials can follow in his footsteps."