Jakarta Marks Ali Sadikin's 100th Birth Anniversary, Reaffirms Commitment to His Legacy

The Jakarta Provincial Government, in collaboration with the Jakarta Arts Institute (IKJ), the Jakarta Arts Council, and the Betawi Cultural Institute, commemorated the 100th anniversary of Ali Sadikin's birth at Grand Theater of Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM) in Menteng, Central Jakarta, on Tuesday (7/7).

His greatest legacy lies in the fields of culture and the arts

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said Ali Sadikin's legacy extends beyond physical infrastructure, emphasizing that his greatest contribution lies in strengthening Betawi culture, arts, and cultural institutions.

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"For me personally, his greatest achievement was not merely physical development. His greatest legacy lies in the fields of culture and the arts, and this place stands as one of the best examples," Pramono said.

He highlighted several landmarks developed during Ali Sadikin's tenure as governor, including Taman Ismail Marzuki, Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, and Ragunan.

Pramono reaffirmed the Jakarta Provincial Government's commitment to preserving and building on Ali Sadikin's legacy. He cited the reopening of the Jakarta Planetarium as one example of that commitment.

As governor, Pramono also stressed that one of his priorities is to continue unfinished development projects initiated by previous administrations.

"Just as importantly, we will continue realizing Bang Ali's vision for culture, including through the revitalization of Setu Babakan," he said.

He added that the Jakarta Provincial Government will complete road improvements in Setu Babakan to help preserve Betawi culture as Jakarta's cultural identity.

Pramono also called on Jakarta residents to uphold Ali Sadikin's spirit in building the city.

Meanwhile, Jakarta Culture Agency Head Miftahulloh Tamary said the commemoration of Ali Sadikin's 100th birth anniversary will take place from July 7 to 14, 2026.

Activities throughout the week will include an archival exhibition on Ali Sadikin, a short film workshop, mural painting, a Betawi language and culture symposium, dance performances, and the soft launch of Ali Sadikin's biography.

"On July 14, 2026, we will hold the Ali Sadikin Memorial Lecture featuring Haji Fauzi Bowo as the speaker, along with the soft launch of Ali Sadikin's biography and the unveiling of a bust of Ali Sadikin," he highlighted.

The commemoration was attended by Jakarta Governor for the 2007-2012 term Fauzi Bowo, as well as members of Ali Sadikin's family.