Kenneth of DKI DPRD Urges Newcomers to Jakarta to Have Skills and Clear Objectives
Amid the tradition of Eid al-Fitr homecoming, there is an annual phenomenon of an increase in new migrants to Jakarta during the return flow. Jakarta is indeed an open city, but not for those who arrive without direction, so as not to end up becoming a social burden.
A member of the DKI Jakarta DPRD from the PDI Perjuangan faction, Hardiyanto Kenneth, emphasised that the phenomenon of new migrants arriving in the capital is unavoidable. As the national economic centre, Jakarta has long been a magnet for opportunities and hopes for people from various regions.
However, he reminded that Jakarta’s openness does not mean without limits or direction. He stressed the importance of readiness for every migrant who wants to seek their fortune in the capital.
“New migrants must truly prepare themselves well. The main provisions they must have are skills, competencies, and clear objectives,” said Kenneth in his statement on Saturday (21/3/2026).
According to Bang Kent—the familiar nickname for Hardiyanto Kenneth—coming to Jakarta is not enough with just recklessness. Migrants are expected to have a well-thought-out plan and the intention to contribute productively, not just to try their luck.
Furthermore, the member of Commission C of the DKI Jakarta DPRD encouraged migrants to also bring an investment spirit, no matter how small the form. He assessed that such steps could become a real contribution to driving regional economic growth.
“If possible, coming to Jakarta should also bring the spirit to strive. For example, by opening independent businesses, empowering MSMEs, or even creating jobs. This will greatly help the economy while supporting the Jakarta Government programmes,” explained the Chairman of IKAL (Association of Lemhannas RI Alumni Families) PPRA Class LXII.
On the other hand, Kent also highlighted the potential social problems that could arise if urbanisation is not accompanied by readiness. He reminded that these migrants should not become a burden on Jakarta.
“I do not want to see migrants who end up becoming Pak Ogah, cart humans, or even getting involved in criminal acts. This must be a collective concern,” stressed the Head of BAGUNA (Disaster Mitigation Agency) of the DKI Jakarta PDI Perjuangan DPD.
Kent added that such conditions not only harm individuals but will also impact public order and Jakarta’s image as a metropolitan city. Therefore, Kent emphasised that Jakarta remains open to anyone who wants to come and strive, as long as they have readiness, responsibility, and clear objectives.
The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government along with the DPRD ranks, continued Kent, will continue to promote more directed urbanisation policies. This is done through strengthening the economy in the regions of origin, improving workforce skills, to social oversight in the capital area.
“We believe that with good intentions and hard work, migrants can become part of the solution, not a burden. Jakarta is not just a place to seek a livelihood, but also a space to contribute and grow together,” he concluded.