Jakarta World FolkFest strengthens capital's image as a global city

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has expressed appreciation for the Jakarta World FolkFest, describing it as a meeting place for the cultures of various nations while strengthening Jakarta’s position as a global city that is open, inclusive, and cultured. The event, held at Balai Agung, Jakarta City Hall, is an international cultural festival featuring 115 delegates from six countries—Romania, Greece, Poland, the Philippines, Russia, and South Korea—alongside Indonesian artists. “The presence of hundreds of delegates from various countries shows that Jakarta is increasingly trusted as a host for international-scale cultural activities,” Pramono said at City Hall on Thursday. According to Pramono, this trust is proof that Jakarta is increasingly recognised as a global city capable of organising world-class cultural agendas. During their stay in Jakarta, the delegates not only performed arts and culture from their respective countries but also participated in a cultural parade in the Dukuh Atas area, at the BNI 46 Building, and the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, as well as visiting a number of iconic destinations such as the National Monument (Monas) and the Old Town area. “I see the delegates’ enthusiasm is very high. Besides enjoying various cultural performances, they also joined the cultural parade and visited various historical destinations in Jakarta. Hopefully, this experience leaves a good impression of Jakarta,” he said. The Jakarta World FolkFest 2026 enlivened the series of celebrations for the 499th Anniversary of Jakarta City, heading towards five centuries of Jakarta in 2027. Through this event, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is reinforcing Jakarta’s position as a global city that is cultured, tolerant, and open to the world community. “This momentum is part of the series of celebrations for Jakarta’s 499th anniversary heading towards five centuries of Jakarta, while also introducing the face of Jakarta as a city that is cultured, inclusive, and open to all,” Pramono explained. He expressed hope that the Jakarta World FolkFest would further strengthen friendship between nations, boost the promotion of the tourism and creative economy sectors, and encourage the hosting of more international agendas in Jakarta.