Pramono Reiterates Ban on Ondel-ondel Street Performers, Requests Satpol PP to Enforce Order

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has emphasised that ondel-ondel must no longer be used for begging on the streets. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government will crack down on this practice, deeming it incompatible with Betawi cultural values.

“For ondel-ondel, we have already decided to prohibit ondel-ondel on the streets,” said Pramono at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta, on Saturday (11/4/2026).

Pramono explained that ondel-ondel is an icon of Betawi culture whose dignity and honour must be preserved. Therefore, ondel-ondel must not be misused for begging purposes on the street.

“Because ondel-ondel is a trademark or icon of Betawi, an icon of Jakarta,” he stated.

Pramono said the Provincial Government will prioritise a persuasive approach through education for the ondel-ondel beggars. However, enforcement will still be carried out by authorities if the practice persists.

“We will provide education, and I request the Satpol PP to prohibit it in such places,” he said.

Nevertheless, Pramono mentioned that strict sanctions will not be imposed in the near future. The current main focus is to build public awareness to respect Betawi cultural values.

“No sanctions yet, but it will definitely be prohibited,” he stressed.

In the future, the DKI Provincial Government plans to revive ondel-ondel as part of Jakarta’s major celebrations. In fact, for the upcoming 500th anniversary of Jakarta, this cultural icon will be showcased in a more elaborate manner.

“For the 500th anniversary of Jakarta, we will make ondel-ondel more elaborate,” he added.