Jakarta – Former Jakarta governor and presidential hopeful Sutiyoso said Monday three smaller political parties had pledged him their support in the upcoming presidential elections.

The three parties are the Prosperous Indonesian Party (PIS), Marhaenism Indonesian National Party (PNIM) and the Indonesian Workers and Employers Party (PPPI).

Speaking in Yogyakarta during Monday's Islamic new year celebrations, Sutiyoso also said he was in talks with other political parties for additional support.

He said he planned to tour to all parts of the country to promote himself as a presidential contender. "Although (touring the country) is tiring, that way I can understand what people want so when I'm elected president, I can immediately take action," he said.

Sutiyoso's chances are considered slim as he has no major-party endorsement that could ensure his eligibility as a presidential candidate. The strongest contenders at the moment are incumbent Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and former president Megawati Soekarnoputri.