Despite the Ancol tourist area being drenched by light rain from morning until night, public interest in celebrating the New Year remained high. The number of visitors had reached 50,000 by 9 PM.

Corporate Communication of PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk, Daniel Windriatmoko, said that the rainy conditions did not completely dampen the public's enthusiasm.

"It's not yet midnight but there are already 50 thousand visitors entering Ancol," he said, Wednesday (12/31).

To anticipate the surge in traffic, he explained, Ancol has prepared three main parking areas. The eastern area is located at the Carnival Parking Lot, the southern area stretches from Sea World to Dunia Fantasi (Dufan), and the northern area is located at Festival Beach.

"The total parking capacity for four-wheeled vehicles reaches around 10,000 units and two-wheeled vehicles can accommodate around 16,000 units," he explained.

Daniel added that for the New Year's Eve celebrations, Ancol has prepared three main points for the crowds. The first is at Karnaval Beach, which will feature the Gempita 2024 Humanity Concert with Dewa 19 featuring Ello.

The second location is in the Lagoon area, featuring a drone light show and laser show. The third location is at Festival Beach, featuring a dangdut music concert.

"Approximately 1,000 drones will be displayed for 15 minutes, combined with a laser show for the New Year's countdown. One drone configuration displays the message "Pray for Sumatra," he added.

Although there will be no fireworks, the excitement is still palpable through the various performances. This New Year's celebration also serves as a momentum to foster empathy and social solidarity.

Fundraising to help the people of Sumatra is carried out through two mechanisms, namely scanning QR codes on the Carnival Stage, as well as a donation of 10 percent of the sales of special entrance tickets on that day.

Meanwhile, one of the tourists from Jambi, Erwin Pebrianshah (18) admitted he is impressed by the New Year's Eve atmosphere at Ancol even without fireworks.

"The music concert is great, I'm also looking forward to the drone show. I am proud and amazed because the Jakarta Provincial Government and Ancol not only provide entertainment, but also invite visitors to care and share," he explained.