Rano Karno Weeps Discussing Jakarta's Aspirations Ahead of Its 5th Centenary

The Deputy Governor of Jakarta, Rano Karno, broke into tears while delivering a speech during the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) plenary session commemorating Jakarta’s 499th anniversary on Monday (22/6).

His emotions surfaced as he expressed his hopes for Jakarta as it approaches its 500th year, or five centuries, in 2027.

“The momentum towards Jakarta’s fifth century must serve as a turning point for all of us to prepare the city’s future with greater earnestness,” said Rano.

Rano emphasised that Jakarta’s future cannot merely be about becoming more advanced and competitive. Instead, he stressed the importance of sustainability and a more humane future for all parties.

“A future that provides safety, opportunity, justice, and hope for all citizens,” he stated.

Rano highlighted the importance of Jakarta’s progress without abandoning its history. He noted that Jakarta must become a global and cultured city that looks at the world with confidence, serving as a centre for growth, innovation, and civilisation.

“However, it must not be uprooted from its historical roots; a city that is modern yet remains true to its identity, a city with tall buildings but also high levels of care,” he said.

Rano emphasised that Jakarta must be a city with rapid economic growth that simultaneously brings widespread benefits. He expressed his desire to present a Jakarta that is competitive without losing its sense of humanity, and inclusive without discrimination based on background.

“Because the measure of a city’s progress lies not only in the glittering lights and magnificent buildings, but in the extent to which every child can dream, every family can live decently, every elderly person feels respected, and every citizen feels they have a place in the great home called Jakarta,” he concluded.