Jakarta Governor Inaugurates Academy, Aims to Revive TIM as Cultural Hub
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung inaugurated members of the Jakarta Academy for the 2026-2031 period at City Hall. Pramono expressed his desire to revitalise Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM) as a cultural centre and open space for public expression.
Pramono stated that Jakarta, as a global city, cannot rely solely on infrastructure development. He believes strengthening cultural identity and providing spaces for artists to express themselves are integral parts of urban development.
‘I truly want to make the space for culture, art, and expression in Jakarta wide open. One of the ways is through the joint management of major stages, including Taman Ismail Marzuki,’ Pramono said at City Hall on Tuesday (23/6/2026).
He acknowledged that in recent years, artistic spaces in Jakarta have tended to become exclusive and difficult for some groups to access. Therefore, the Jakarta Provincial Government is striving to reopen access for cultural and artistic practitioners.
‘I really want Taman Ismail Marzuki to become a jointly managed public space. Spaces for culture, expression, and art must be opened as widely as possible,’ said Pram, his nickname.
Pramono also revealed that relations and communication with the Jakarta Institute of the Arts (IKJ) are continuously being improved. He aims to eliminate the barriers that have limited creative space within the TIM area.
Additionally, the Jakarta Provincial Government has reopened the Jakarta Planetarium and is preparing a broader space for expression for art communities.
According to Pramono, the various facilities in the TIM area must be able to support the development of Jakarta’s art and cultural ecosystem.
On a personal note, Pramono shared his long-standing interest in literature and culture. He admitted to attending a Cultural Congress in 1991 and actively following the development of Indonesian writers.
‘On a personal note, I’ll let you in on a secret. My true ambition was actually to become a writer,’ Pramono said, drawing laughter from the audience.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Jakarta Academy, Seno Gumira Ajidarma, expressed hope that the inauguration would serve as a momentum to strengthen the institution’s role in supporting the development of art and culture in the capital.
‘On the occasion of this inauguration, we hope you will pray that we can all work well,’ said Seno.
The Jakarta Academy for the 2026-2031 period consists of 16 members, including nine existing members and seven new ones. Pramono expressed hope that the Academy members would become strategic partners for the Jakarta Provincial Government in formulating the future direction of art and cultural development in Jakarta.