Pramono Responds to Criticism Over Persija Involvement: Couldn't Sleep After Defeat to Arema

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has acknowledged frequent public criticism over his perceived excessive involvement with Persija, Jakarta’s football club. He made the remarks whilst attending the Grand Betawi Community Gathering at the M.H. Thamrin Museum in Central Jakarta on Sunday, 15 February 2026.

Pramono initially expressed his commitment to establishing Betawi culture as Jakarta’s core identity. “Once again, as Governor of Jakarta, I very much want to make Betawi a strong identity for the city,” he said.

He then addressed the criticism he has received from the public for being too involved in football matters. However, Pramono argued that Persija is also part of Jakarta’s identity, giving him legitimate authority as governor to be involved.

“I’m being criticised now for being a governor who is too involved with Persija. But what else should I be looking after? Of course I’m going to look after Persija,” Pramono said.

The PDIP politician went on to reveal that he could not sleep properly after Persija lost 2-0 to Arema, a football club from Malang. “I couldn’t sleep after losing 2-0 to Arema. Whenever Persija loses, I meet Diky, the Jakmania chairman, and I’m so frustrated,” he said.

Pramono also stated that Betawi cultural education should be incorporated into school curricula, with the aim of helping children better understand Betawi culture and the city of Jakarta.