Until the early 20th century, the Kemayoran area is still dominated by swamps and paddies with small settlements. Administratively, Kemayoran is a Weekmeester governed by a "Bek" ("Defender"). After the independence of Indonesia, Kemayoran became part of the Sawah Besar Kecamatan (district), Penjaringan, Jakarta Raya. From 1963 to 1968, Kemayoran was part of the Kecamatan of Senen, Jakarta Raya. Then since 1968 until now, Kemayoran became a Kecamatan of Central Jakarta municipality.