Rasuna Said: The New Icon for Jakarta’s Global City Shift

The kick-off of Jakarta’s 499th Anniversary—marking the city's journey toward its fifth century—will be held on May 9-10, 2026, along the HR Rasuna Said corridor in Setiabudi, South Jakarta.

This corridor is the primary focus of the city's 499th Anniversary launch

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung revealed that the location was chosen because Rasuna Said is deemed a new icon of Jakarta’s transformation into a global city. According to him, Rasuna Said is being prepared as a new Car Free Day (CFD) zone, similar to the Sudirman-Thamrin area.

"This will provide Jakarta residents with more options. In due time, I will also announce changes to the Car Free Day hours, and hopefully, Jakarta people will become even healthier," he expressed in a press release on Friday (5/8).

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Further, the Rasuna Said area was selected as the activity center because it serves as an arterial heart of Jakarta with very high levels of activity.

“This area is not only a hub for diplomacy and business but also a facility for sports, lifestyle, and culture. Hence, the revitalization of this corridor is the primary focus of the city's 499th Anniversary launch,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Assistant for Economy and Finance, who also serves as the Executive Chair of the 499th Anniversary Committee, Suharini Eliawati, added that the presence of numerous embassies and various economic centers makes the area a symbol of Jakarta's new transformation.

Through the integration of government, diplomatic, and private sectors, the Rasuna Said corridor stands as a testament to Jakarta’s commitment to becoming a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable city.

“We can imagine the vibrancy of this event, supported by 30 embassies, 15 ministries and government agencies, as well as over 200 private office buildings, shopping centers, hospitals, and high-rise residences. This massive collaboration will showcase a new face of Jakarta across various aspects of life,” she explained.

The launch event is designed with a concept that blends cultural elements with urban modernity. A variety of activities will be presented throughout the event.

Suharini also invited Jakartans to participate in the festivities. She emphasized that the Jakarta government, under the leadership of Governor Anung and Vice Governor Rano Karno, is ready to lead Jakarta toward its five-century milestone.

“Under the leadership of Pramono and Rano, the Jakarta government has prepared various creative concepts for the public to enjoy. We are presenting sports activities, Betawi arts, and a grand peak event,” she continued.

The anniversary kick-off will feature several key programs, including 'Sehat Bugar Rasuna' (Healthy and Fit Rasuna), a morning exercise session with the Jakarta Youth and Sports Agency. Additionally, 'Dengar Dekat Betawi' (Listening Closely to Betawi) will feature lenong (traditional Betawi theater) as a symbolic reflection heading into the anniversary.

The main event, titled 'Spekta Jakarta,' will feature a dialogue session with the Governor and Vice Governor, headlined by performances from several national musicians.