Governor invites Jakartans to attend SEA Games opening event

Jakarta Governor Fauzi Bowo has invited Jakarta residents to attend an event to celebrate the opening of the 26th SEA Games, at the National Monument (Monas) in Central Jakarta on Friday night.

In a press statement sent to journalists, Fauzi says he has prepared several art performances by Betawi (Jakarta native) performers, such as Ondel-ondel and Pencak Silat

The governor also said Monas would be open to the public from 3 p.m. and that the event was free of charge.

"Not all of us can enjoy the opening ceremony in Palembang. That's why we are holding another celebration here," he said.

Fauzi added that athletes and officials from 11 SEA Games participant countries would attend the Jakarta event.

Several singers including Titi DJ, Sandy Sandoro and Coklat are also scheduled to perform at the event that will kick off at 6.30 p.m.

The official opening ceremony in Palembang, meanwhile, will be officiated by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. (lfr)