The Central Jakarta City Government and creative communities are preparing the historic Pasar Baru area as a new nighttime economic and creative destination.
An interactive discussion was held at the Antara Heritage Center (AHC), involving creative communities, tourism activists, and government representatives. The discussion addressed the revitalization plan for the historic Pasar Baru area in Central Jakarta, aiming to replicate the success of the Blok M transformation as a magnet for the younger generation.
Following the successful transformation of Blok M, the Central Jakarta City Government, together with creative communities, is turning its attention to the historic Pasar Baru area to prepare it as “The Next Blok M Hub.” Known as a center for textiles, musical instruments, and cameras, the area is planned to be transformed into a vibrant destination that remains active into the night by blending historical value with contemporary trends.
This revitalization plan emerged during a discussion at the Antara Heritage Center, attended by creative industry players, tourism advocates, and government officials. The forum was held to formulate strategic steps to ensure Pasar Baru no longer becomes quiet or turns into a “dead city” after sunset.
The Founder of Wisata Kreatif Jakarta, Ira Lathief, noted that Pasar Baru holds great potential to match the success of Blok M, provided its operational challenges can be resolved. Based on her observations while guiding tours, activity in the area begins to quiet down around 7:00 PM WIB, and most shops close by 8:00 PM WIB. Therefore, adjusting operational hours is considered a key factor in the program’s success.
To strengthen the area’s identity, the revitalization plan will reinstate the iconic vintage canopies that were once a signature feature of Pasar Baru. Beyond enhancing visual aesthetics and reviving a classic atmosphere, vehicle access along the main corridor will also be restricted. This arrangement aims to create a safe space for pedestrians, making the area ideal for nighttime walking tours. A fashion week in the heart of the textile district has also been proposed to enliven the area.
In terms of empowering the local economy, Sofia Prameswari from the Antara Heritage Center stated that the back area of Pasar Baru will be developed into an MSME hub. This initiative is expected to revive the area's economic activity late into the night, mirroring the success of similar activities around 2011.
In closing, Toton Hutomi, Program Director of Wajah Baru Passer Baroe from Media RP1, emphasized that the revitalization of this cultural heritage area is being carried out collaboratively with the Central Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Agency. He expressed optimism that over the next 5 to 10 years, Pasar Baru will undergo a major transformation into a more dynamic and inclusive district.