Over 2,300 Participants and 400 Boats Light Up the 4th Kalibaru Festival in North Jakarta

The 4th Kalibaru Festival 2026, held at Plaza Kalibaru on Jalan Kalibaru Barat, Cilincing, North Jakarta, was met with grand fanfare and overwhelming community enthusiasm.

Kalibaru is the Coastal Jewel of North Jakarta

In his opening remarks, North Jakarta Mayor Hendra Hidayat commended the unity of the local residents. According to him, the festival serves as a beautiful reflection of local harmony and a shared love for the region.

"Kalibaru is the Coastal Jewel of North Jakarta. This region is home to extraordinary natural potential, rich culture, and profound local wisdom," he expressed, Sunday (8/30).

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He hoped that such empowerment initiatives will continue long-term, keeping the unique coastal spirit alive while boosting the welfare of the local people.

He added that the event is a vital step in leading the area toward a better tomorrow—perfectly mirroring Jakarta’s evolution into a global city that never forgets its cultural roots.

"May this festival deepen our unity and awaken a profound pride in our identity as a vibrant and cultured waterfront society," he expressed.

Meanwhile, Kalibaru RT/RW Chair, Haji Abdul Karim, explained that the festival is the fruit of a massive collaboration between various community organizations, including neighborhood leaders, Karang Taruna youth groups, and women’s empowerment wings (PKK and Dasawisma). The initiative also received full backing from Kalibaru and Cilincing sub-districts.

"This event embodies the synergy between public aspirations and governmental facilitation. Kalibaru is akin to a durian—sharp and rugged on the exterior, yet sweet and exceptional on the inside. We aim to showcase this potential to a broader audience," he explained.

According to Karim, public participation was exceptionally high, with over 2,300 individuals registered for the Cultural Carnival.

"Beyond the carnival, the most anticipated highlight was the Boat Parade, featuring 400 fishermen from Kalibaru, Cilincing, and Marunda. This is a powerful testament to the strength and solidarity of our community," he added.

He detailed that this Kalibaru Festival comprised various events, such as a mass exercise session for 1,000 participants, an SME bazaar for seafood products, coloring contests for children, and a fashion show. Traditional sports, including tug-of-war and sack races, were also held to foster community spirit.

"Further, the event showcased a Student Band Parade, a fish-grilling competition, and Betawi cultural art performances for the public's enjoyment," he stated.

He expressed his desire for the Kalibaru Festival to be held annually as a means of regional development and cultural preservation.

"This is intended to be sustainable. Looking ahead, we aim to organize an even larger festival next year to mark the significant milestone of Jakarta’s 500th anniversary," he stated.