Next week, from September 3 to 6, 2024, His Holiness Pope Francis will visit Jakarta. This is his first visit to Indonesia and Jakarta will be the first stop on his Southeast Asia tour.

The Pope’s visit has a great importance not only for Indonesia Catholics, but for the entire country and all religious communities. he visit is also expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity and world peace. Pope Francis’ visit has been originally planned in 2020, however, the visit was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

We can expect a lot of traffic restrictions and strengthened security checks, especially in the locations where will be passing the delegation. Pope Francis will meet with President Jokowi on September 4. On September 5, the Pope will address an interreligious gathering at the Istiqlal Mosque and later that day will hold Great Mass at GBK Stadium. Is is estimated that up to 90 000 catholics will attend the mass.

The government recommended to work from home on September 5 to avoid traffic congestion during the Holy Mass. We can expect traffic restrictions, street closures and crowds on the streets during the visit of Pope. Therefore, you can expect traffic jams and restrictions if you are in Jakarta during these days. It is also recommended to have your ID with you due the possible security checks.

Sources: https://kemlu.go.id/portal/en/read/5856/berita/indonesia-welcomes-the-upcoming-visit-of-pope-francis
https://crisis24.garda.com/alerts/2024/08/indonesia-pope-francis-to-visit-jakarta-sept-3-6