Jakarta. Despite his strong support for Persib Bandung, Golkar Party Vice Chairman Ridwan Kamil has pledged his support for Persija Jakarta and its fans, The Jakmania, if elected as Jakarta’s Governor. Golkar has officially endorsed Ridwan as their candidate for the 2024 Jakarta gubernatorial election.

Ridwan said he is committed to embracing Jakarta's culture, including its football team and supporters. "If elected Governor of Jakarta, I will support and love Jakarta in all its aspects, including The Jak and Persija," he said on Thursday.

He stressed the importance of respecting and appreciating a new "home" when taking on a new role. Despite his allegiance to Persib Bandung, Ridwan assured that his dedication to Jakarta’s football scene would be sincere and wholehearted.

"Just as I cherished Bandung and West Java in my previous roles, I will fully embrace Jakarta and its people," said Ridwan, who previously served as West Java governor.

Ridwan expressed confidence in his chances of winning the Jakarta gubernatorial race, even against former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan. "I’m ready to face any opponent. I’ve previously competed against eight pairs in Bandung and four in West Java. If I don’t win in Jakarta, I have other opportunities. I can contribute through teaching, running a coffee business, or in skincare," he concluded.

In the meantime, Ridwan’s associate, Jusuf Hamka, also known as Babah Alun, is expected to run in the West Java gubernatorial race. “Jusuf Hamka is heading to Bandung,” Ridwan said.

He explained that Golkar views Jusuf Hamka as a better fit for West Java, as having two Golkar candidates in the Jakarta race was not feasible. The vice gubernatorial position in Jakarta will therefore be allocated to a coalition party.

Ridwan Kamil noted that Jusuf Hamka is well-received in West Java and has a strong chance of being the vice gubernatorial candidate alongside Dedi Mulyadi. "He is a devout Muslim, close to religious leaders, and well-settled. I believe the people of West Java will welcome Jusuf Hamka," Ridwan added.

Jusuf Hamka confirmed that Golkar is evaluating several potential candidates for the vice gubernatorial role alongside Dedi Mulyadi. Besides Hamka, Ridwan Kamil’s wife, Atalia Praratya, is also being considered for the position.