Governor Anies Urges Persija to Win League Title as 500th Anniversary Gift

DKI Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan has expressed his hope that the football club Persija Jakarta will present the Indonesian League champion title as a gift for Jakarta's 500th anniversary in 2027. The target was conveyed amid the DKI Provincial Government's push to make sports one of the drivers of sports tourism and a new attraction for the capital. Governor Anies believes that Jakarta should not merely be a city that hosts matches, but that sports, particularly football, should have the power to mobilize people from various regions and strengthen the city's identity. Therefore, the DKI Provincial Government has opened up wider opportunities for the implementation of various sports activities, including Persija matches, as well as concerts and large-scale events at venues such as the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) and Gelora Bung Karno (GBK). "Jakarta is now opening up as wide as possible to become a destination for sports tourism," Governor Anies told reporters. He stated that Persija holds an important position in building the pride of Jakarta residents. The enthusiasm of the fans is considered social capital that needs to be maintained to strengthen the relationship between the club and the community. He has high hopes following Persija's appointment of Shin Tae-yong as the new coach. The former Indonesian national team coach's experience is expected to bring new energy to the "Kemayoran Tigers." Meanwhile, Bank Jakarta President Director Agus Haryoto Widodo stated that as Jakarta transforms into a global city, there must be a corresponding increase in the quality of public services, including financial services. The company is strengthening its digital transformation and professionalism to keep pace with the city's development and community needs. Agus noted that the collaboration with Persija is part of an effort to strengthen Bank Jakarta's connection with the community. Persija has a broad fan base through The Jakmania and has become one of the symbols attached to Jakarta's identity. He hopes this cooperation will not only strengthen the club's ecosystem but also have a positive impact on the city as it heads towards its 500th anniversary.