TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Asian Games Organizing Committee (INASGOC) explained to the Jakarta administration regarding the ticket price which was considered overpriced. INASGOC Ticketing Director Sarman Simanjorang said the price was set based on discussions with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA).

“So, it’s not INASGOC,” said Sarman after meeting with Jakarta Deputy Governor Sandiaga Uno at the city hall, Thursday, July 5.

Sarman went on to say that the price was adjusted based on the popularity of Asian Games as the biggest sports event after the Olympics. He added the ticket price of the 18th Asian Games was set by considering the price at the previous period.

Read: Sandiaga Uno Wants Free Asian Games Tickets for Students

“The lowest ticket price of Asian Games in South Korea set at Rp1.2 million and for the VIP is Rp8.4 million,” he mentioned.

Another reason, Sarman explained, the price was also adjusted to the rupiah exchange rate and the capacity of the seat at Gelora Bung Karno stadium for the opening event.

INASGOC visited the city hall to meet the invitation of Sandiaga. The Jakarta deputy governor shocked by hearing the price of the opening ticket at a range of Rp750,000 to Rp2 million, and the game's ticket was priced at Rp30,000 to Rp200,000-250,000 for VIP class.

Sandiaga respected the reasons. However, he would find a way of providing a cheaper price, especially for Jakartans. “Perhaps by offering 20 percent discount for students and look for multiple sponsors that can give out discount or promo for the public,” he said.

Furthermore, INASGOC will share 20 percent of free tickets of the 18th Asian Games' opening event and the games which will be handed out to students and invitations.

M YUSUF MANURUNG | DEVY ERNIS