Jakarta Gov't to Provide Alternative Football Field After Railway Company Denies Use of Land

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI), the state railway company, has denied a request from Menteng residents in Central Jakarta to use its land for street football, including the "Liga Aspal" tournament. The decision, aimed at ensuring the safety of residents and train passengers, has been respected by the Jakarta provincial government.

Governor Pramono Anung stated that the land in Menteng is owned by PT KAI, making its usage solely the company's prerogative. "This is entirely within KAI's authority. I greatly respect KAI's policy," Anung said, acknowledging the provincial government's lack of jurisdiction over the matter.

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This is entirely within KAI's authority. I greatly respect KAI's policy.

The "Liga Aspal" tournament, organized by residents and the local youth organization, serves as a recreational and developmental platform for children aged 8 to 13, fostering a love for football amidst a scarcity of suitable playing fields in the densely populated area.

Despite the denial, Governor Anung assured that the provincial government would still provide alternative spaces for children to play football. He announced plans to upgrade facilities at the RPTRA Borobudur and Borobudur Field, located near the original site. These improved facilities will be available for community use, including for events like the Liga Aspal, should the original venue remain inaccessible.

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I have decided that for RPTRA Borobudur and the Borobudur football field, which are not far from that place, we will perfect them, we will allow them to be used, if Liga Aspal can no longer be used, they can use that field.