Jakarta’s events hub status boosts tourism, economy: governor

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Jakarta (ANTARA) – Jakarta’s growing role as a major events hub is boosting tourism and economic activity, Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said, citing the impact of international sports and music events.

“Jakarta is becoming a new hub, what I call an ‘epicenter of events,’” Pramono said on Sunday while opening the NHI Family Funwalk at the Sapta Pesona Building.

Tourist arrivals and spending linked to the creative economy are contributing to Jakarta’s economic growth, he said.

He cited the Jakarta Running Festival, held late last month, which attracted about 37,000 runners, including more than 1,000 international participants from 58 countries.

“What was the economic impact of holding the event in Jakarta for two days? It reached approximately Rp175 billion (US$9.7 million),” Pramono said.

Beyond sporting events, Jakarta also attracted tourists with a concert by rapper Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, held on the same day as the running festival.

Jakarta was the only stop on Ye’s tour in Southeast Asia and Oceania. The concert drew about 70,000 people, including 25,000 foreign visitors from 80 countries, according to event figures.

Pramono said he expected Jakarta’s position as an events hub to strengthen, with more international concerts scheduled through the end of the year.

Guns N’ Roses is scheduled to perform in Jakarta on November 21, followed by South Korean group BTS, which will hold three concerts in December.

“BTS will perform for three days. All tickets for the December 26, 27 and 29 shows sold out as soon as sales opened,” Pramono said.

Citing strong public enthusiasm and the economic potential of international events, he stressed the importance of keeping Jakarta safe and comfortable.

“I believe everyone will come to Jakarta if we make it safe and comfortable,” Pramono said.