Jakarta Acting Governor, Heru Budi Hartono appreciates all elements of society who have participated in the progress of Jakarta. At its 496th year, Jakarta not only celebrates the turn of its age, but also reflects the long journey and changes that Jakarta has experienced.

As it enters its 496th year, Jakarta continues to strive to be a formidable city, on par with developed cities in the world

As a city that is almost 500 years old, Jakarta has shown extraordinary character and resilience in facing various challenges and changes.

"As it enters its 496th year, Jakarta continues to strive to be a formidable city, on par with developed cities in the world and to become the host for various important international scale events," he expressed, when he served as an inspector for Jakarta City's 496th Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony at Monas, Gambir, Central Jakarta, Thursday (6/22).

After holding the status as the National Capital, Jakarta would transform into a Global City that acts as the main node in the world economic network.

Jakarta has a direct and real impact on global socio-economic affairs. The priority for Jakarta's development in the 2023-2026 period is to strengthen Jakarta's role as the center of Indonesia's growth.

"This commitment is reflected in Jakarta's Aspirations, namely Jakarta's Success for Indonesia. With experience as the National Capital City, Jakarta is expected to continuously make a positive contribution and have an impact on the development of other regions in Indonesia," he explained.

He explained the celebration of Jakarta's anniversary began with a declaration which involved releasing 496 birds and planting trees as a symbol of Jakarta's commitment to supporting sustainable economic recovery with an environment orientation.

"Jakarta Provincial Government is very aware of the importance of maintaining a balance between modern physical development and the preservation of the natural environment," he explained.

He added the theme of Jakarta's 496th anniversary, 'Jakarta: Become a Work for the Archipelago', was chosen to illustrate Jakarta's readiness to optimize all available resources to realize urban development and people's welfare, as well as to become a driving force for progress for other regions in Indonesia.

He urged all elements of society to maintain a conducive situation in Jakarta, to avoid provocations and actions that could disturb security and public order.

"Let's make the 496th Anniversary celebration an opportunity to strengthen synergies in a bid to build Jakarta's future as a Global City that is at the forefront of Indonesia's progress," he stated.