Jakarta. Ridwan Kamil on Thursday expressed confidence in winning the Jakarta gubernatorial election after securing support from four major political parties.

He had won the mayoral election in Bandung twice and was elected governor in West Java even before he joined the Golkar Party.

Instead of seeking reelection in West Java, Ridwan has accepted his nomination for the Jakarta governorship by the coalition behind Parbowo Subianto’s successful presidential bid.

He could potentially face populist figure Anies Baswedan, who was the Jakarta governor from 2017 to 2022.

"I’m ready to compete against anybody. I won the mayoral election over eight rival candidates and contested the West Java gubernatorial election against four candidates,” Ridwan said in Jakarta.

"I’m an optimistic person. With the blessing from Allah, I’m ready to lead in Jakarta.”

He claimed the prospect of losing doesn’t bother him at all.

"Even if I lose, I won’t stay unemployed. I can become a lecturer or run a coffee or skincare business, anything," he said.

"I have had enough on my plate. However, if given a chance to lead, I will dedicate all my knowledge to that.”