Central Jakarta, Administrative district in Jakarta, Indonesia
Central Jakarta is an administrative district within the special capital region, home to government buildings, corporate headquarters, embassies, and financial institutions. The district covers residential and business neighborhoods, large green spaces, and busy main roads that link different parts of the area together.
The district was established shortly after Indonesia declared independence in August 1945, when Jakarta became the new capital of the republic. Over the following decades, the area developed into the political and economic center of the country, drawing ministries and international representations.
The National Monument rises above Merdeka Square and draws visitors each day who climb to the observation platform to look across the city. The Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral face each other and show how different communities of faith coexist in daily life.
The TransJakarta bus system and commuter trains connect the district to surrounding areas, while the metro serves selected neighborhoods directly. Rush hours in the morning and afternoon bring heavy traffic on the roads, so planning trips outside these times can save effort.
The district is led by an appointed mayor who reports directly to the governor of the special capital region, rather than being chosen through local elections. This administrative structure differs from most other municipalities across Indonesia, which elect their mayors directly.
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