Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung plans to transform the Pasar Baru area in Central Jakarta into a 24-hour culinary tourism destination, following a similar approach to the one adopted in Blok M and Myeongdeong in Seoul, South Korea.
Anung stated that the plan would be implemented once construction of the MRT line connecting Monas and Harmoni had been completed.
“We are waiting for the MRT project to be completed. Once the MRT line reaches the Monas–Harmoni stretch, we will prepare Pasar Baru to become a new hub—a 24-hour culinary tourism destination, much like Myeongdong in South Korea,” he said on Friday, the 30th of October.
Nirwono Joga, a special staff member to the Jakarta Governor for Development and Urban Planning, outlined three key findings from an evaluation highlighting why Pasar Baru requires urgent revitalisation. First, the area’s appeal has declined and is no longer relevant to millennials and Gen Z. Second, transport accessibility and pedestrian infrastructure remain inadequate. Third, facilities need to be upgraded to ensure visitors’ comfort.
To achieve this transformation, the Jakarta Provincial Government plans to introduce a “Low Emission Zone” concept.
“Much like Myeongdong, areas in Singapore, or Tokyo, this [Pasar Baru area] district is well suited to becoming a vehicle-free zone, allowing people to walk around comfortably. Private vehicles would be directed to parking facilities on the outskirts, outside the main area,” Joga explained on Wednesday, the 4th of November.
In addition to Pasar Baru, the Kota Tua (Old Town) and Glodok areas are also set to be developed into thematic zones. Glodok will be designed with a distinct Chinese-inspired character, while Kota Tua will feature a European-style aesthetic.
“There are several locations near Pasar Baru that will be developed into thematic areas. One is Glodok—the Chinatown district—which will certainly have its own unique identity. Another is Kota Tua, which will also have its own distinct character,” Anung added.
Additionally, Anung expressed his hopes that the development of these thematic areas would broaden Jakarta’s range of tourist destinations, ensuring that Blok M is not the city’s only major hub for visitors and public gatherings. Furthermore, he hopes that areas such as Pasar Baru, Glodok, and Kota Tua will eventually become just as bustling and popular with visitors as Blok M.