Jakarta Vice Governor Rano Karno flagged off the BTN Jakarta International Marathon (Jakim) 2026 marathon race at the West Crossroad of the National Monument in Gambir, Central Jakarta, on Sunday (6/14).

A total of around 8,200 runners from 55 countries took part in the marathon race, which finished at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (GBK).

"We are very proud and happy that Jakim has been successfully held ahead of Jakarta's 499th anniversary," Rano said.

Rano noted that the event's success highlights Jakarta's ability to host major international events.

"Jakarta has proven capable of hosting an international event of this scale. It reflects a shared awareness among all parties that Jakarta belongs to all of us and must be maintained together," he emphasized.

Rano hopes BTN Jakim will become a regular annual event and continue to grow. Beyond strengthening Jakarta's profile, he believes international events of this scale can also generate significant economic benefits.

During the event, Rano also announced the Jakarta government's plan to hold an entertainment stage at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout during the peak celebration of Jakarta's 499th anniversary on June 22.

"We will hold a celebration at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout during Jakarta's anniversary," he added.

Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir said BTN Jakim 2026 not only encourages people to exercise but also helps develop sports tourism.

"A total of 45,000 participants is no small number. The economic impact is tremendous, and hopefully it will continue to grow," he said.

BTN President Director Nixon L.P. Napitupulu explained that Jakim 2026 attracted around 45,000 participants from 55 countries. Of that total, 8,200 runners competed in the marathon category, including 1,012 international participants.

According to Nixon, the large number of participants has boosted hotel occupancy rates in the Sudirman, Senayan, and Thamrin areas, with many foreign runners staying in nearby accommodations.

"We will calculate the economic impact after today's event. However, we are confident it will be at least twice as large as last year's," he said.