Jakarta is currently the hub for digital excellence as the JAKI & Fellowship Cities Forum (JFJF) 2026 kicks off at City Hall. Running for two days (August 19–20) in a hybrid format, the forum has connected more than 3,000 visionaries from 200 cities across the country.

Vice Governor Rano Karno officially opened the event, emphasizing that the program—initiated by Jakarta Smart City (UPJSC)—is a bold move to revolutionize digital public services.

"Interest has been overwhelming. We've surpassed our initial target of 3,000 participants, bringing together a powerhouse of experts from government, academia, the private sector, and strategic communities," he expressed, Wednesday (8/19).

Under the theme 'Sharing Best Practice in Digital Transformation and Public Innovation,' Jakarta is set to share its blueprint for digital success. By leveraging its own experience, the city hopes to empower other regions to reach new heights in public service excellence.

"This forum is more than just a meeting; it’s an arena where key stakeholders can truly connect and learn from each other’s journeys," Rano explained.

The forum delves into a wide range of pivotal topics, including the utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data to drive data-driven decision-making, the development of integrated citizen grievance systems, and strategic approaches to building public trust through digital communication.

Rano envisions JFCF 2026 as a strategic platform for Jakarta to share its expertise in managing public complaints, strengthening data interoperability among local governments, and fostering transparent and accountable digital communication.

"For Jakarta, this momentum solidifies our path toward becoming a more globally competitive metropolis," he firmly continued.

Meanwhile, National Digital Service Integration Assistant Deputy, Adi Nugroho assessed that JFCF 2026 perfectly aligns with the central government's vision.

He emphasized that Jakarta is setting a vital example—proving that for real transformation to happen, regional governments must learn from each other.

The goal is to create a two-way street of innovation: taking Jakarta’s success stories to other cities and bringing regional wins back to the capital.

"At its heart, we are striving to create a connected government that 'speaks' the same language, just as the President envisioned. This synergy is key to making public services faster, easier, and more reliable for every citizen," he noted.

Jakarta Communication, Informatics, and Statistics Agency (Diskominfotik) Head, Marulina Dewi highlighted the massive scale of JFCF 2026, which features 14 diverse forums blending virtual and in-person experiences.

"We’ve created a space where global and local insights collide. The event brings together a vibrant mix of voices—from government officials and international academics to tech industry leaders and community advocates," she explained.

One of the event's most prestigious segments is the ASEAN Smart Cities Network (ASCN) Forum. In a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Home, the forum serves as a melting pot for smart city initiatives from Jakarta, Makassar, Denpasar, Semarang, and Sumedang.

"JFCF is envisioned as a two-way street. It is not just about Jakarta sharing its journey; we are also here to learn and adopt successful digital governance strategies from our fellow local governments across Indonesia," she concluded.