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🇮🇩 Indonesia /Culture & Society

Jakarta School Collapses; Governor Calls It 'A Slap in the Face'

From Tempo · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung expressed dismay upon learning about the collapse of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 through a viral video.
  • He pledged immediate repairs, emphasizing education as a fundamental priority for the city.
  • The school building had been in a state of disrepair for two years, forcing students to relocate for classes.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung admitted he only became aware of the dilapidated state of SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 after a video documenting the school's collapse went viral on social media. The governor stated that the issue would be addressed immediately, acknowledging the severity of the situation.

The first thing I want to answer is this is a State Elementary School in Kebayoran Lama. Of course, we will handle it immediately. And frankly, I only knew about it when it went viral.

— Pramono AnungThe Jakarta Governor acknowledges learning about the school's collapse from social media.

"The first thing I want to answer is this is a State Elementary School in Kebayoran Lama. Of course, we will handle it immediately. And frankly, I only knew about it when it went viral," Pramono told reporters in South Jakarta on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. He assured that the school would receive special attention for prompt repair.

Pramono reiterated his commitment to fixing the school, emphasizing that education, health, and social welfare are the most fundamental aspects requiring improvement in Jakarta. He described the situation as a harsh personal blow. "What is clear is that for Jakarta, especially for me personally, education being like that truly slaps my face," he stated.

So for the State Elementary School in Kebayoran Lama, we will resolve it immediately.

— Pramono AnungThe governor assures swift action to repair the damaged school.

Discussions were scheduled to determine the timeline for repairs. Despite potential budget constraints, Pramono insisted the renovation would proceed, even if funds were not yet allocated in the regional budget. He suggested utilizing available emergency funds. The governor also planned a personal visit to the school.

The point is education for me, education, health, and social are the most fundamental things that must be improved in Jakarta.

— Pramono AnungThe governor highlights his priorities for the city's development.

Reports indicate the school building had been collapsing for two years, forcing students to temporarily relocate for their studies. The viral video depicted a severely damaged roof structure, with bent metal beams and scattered tiles littering the classrooms, covering student desks and debris.

What is clear is that for Jakarta, especially for me personally, education being like that truly slaps my face.

— Pramono AnungThe governor expresses personal dismay and accountability regarding the school's condition.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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