Pramomo Anung Explains Meaning of Homecoming to Jakarta for Eid Tourism

As millions of residents leave the capital to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in their hometowns, Jakarta typically transforms into a quieter city. This is the moment the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government aims to utilize through the "Mudik ke Jakarta" program, a tourism concept that initially caused public misunderstanding.

DKI Jakarta Governor, Pramono Anung Wibowo, clarified that the program is not an invitation for people from other regions to come to the capital. According to him, the term refers more to an effort to offer a different tourism experience when Jakarta is quiet.

"I want to clarify some news reports about 'mudik ke Jakarta'. It does not mean we are expecting people from villages everywhere to come to Jakarta for mudik, as Jakarta is certainly not their destination. Instead, Jakarta is currently providing an opportunity for anyone to enjoy Jakarta when the city is quiet," explained Pramono in the Thousand Islands on Friday.

From the city government's perspective, the Eid period presents a different urban landscape. Roads are more spacious, public spaces are calmer, and many tourist destinations can be enjoyed without the usual crowds.

Based on previous data, the number of residents Traveling for mudik this year is estimated to be similar to last year. This means millions will temporarily leave Jakarta.

To leverage this situation, the DKI Provincial Government has prepared various tourism programs and promotions during the Eid period. Discounts will be offered at several destinations and on city transportation services.

"We will organize discount programs. Several tourist attractions will also offer discounts, including for transportation – we will make everything free for two consecutive days," stated Pramono.

However, Jakarta will not be completely empty. The Transportation Department estimates around 4 million residents will remain in the capital during the Eid holiday period.

This condition means several popular destinations are predicted to remain crowded. Tourist spots like Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, Ragunan Wildlife Conservation Park, and Taman Mini Indonesia Indah are expected to be magnets for family visits.

Additionally, Historical Areas such as Jakarta Old Town, the iconic open space of the National Monument (Monas), and beaches in the Thousand Islands are also predicted to be busy with residents choosing to holiday within the city.

Traditional shopping centers are also expected to draw crowds. Areas like Tanah Abang, Kebon Kacang, and Glodok are predicted to be shopping destinations during the long holiday.

To anticipate potential congestion, the local government has prepared various traffic engineering schemes, ranging from contra flow to the possible implementation of odd-even vehicle restrictions in tourist areas.

Furthermore, over two thousand personnel have been deployed to support smooth mobility during the Eid Transport period. Support vehicles such as patrol cars, tow trucks, portable signs, and traffic cones have been prepared at various points.

Simultaneously, the flow of vehicles exiting and entering Jakarta is also predicted to increase significantly. The peak of the mudik exodus is estimated to occur on March 18, while the return flow is predicted for March 23.