Betawi Folk Music Delights Indonesian Football Supporters at Istora MRT Station

Ahead of the high-stakes 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup title clash between Indonesia and Thailand at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, the Jakarta Cultural Agency treated commuters and fans to a vibrant traditional art showcase at Istora Mandiri MRT Station in Senayan, South Jakarta.

Their stage presence was amazing!

According to Beritajakarta.id reporters on the scene on Monday (10/5), the rhythmic sounds of Gambang Kromong by Sanggar Margasari were met with hearty cheers from the public, especially fans gearing up for the grand finale.

Staging Gambang Kromong amid the evening rush reflects the city's effort to breathe Betawi heritage into everyday public spaces. The fusion of folk music and football passion worked like a charm, getting commuters and soccer enthusiasts to stop, smile, and dance along.

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Several supporters decked out in Indonesian national team jerseys even joined the Sanggar Margasari vocalists on stage to dance. The atmosphere grew electric, perfectly capturing the soaring public excitement ahead of the championship showdown at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

The performance featured a repertoire of legendary Indonesian tunes, particularly Betawi folk standards like Kicir-Kicir, Jali-Jali, and Ondel-Ondel, as well as classics by iconic maestro Benyamin S., including Kompor Mledug, Ujung-Ujungnya, Hujan Gerimis, and Si Jampang.

The performance, which ran from 4 PM to 6 PM, drew high praise from local South Jakarta resident Irlan Ferdiansyah. He believes staging cultural entertainment in public spaces should be held consistently, especially when the capital is buzzing with major events.

"As a Jakartan, I truly appreciate the Jakarta government for consistently delivering top-notch entertainment for its residents, especially during festive occasions celebrated across the city," he remarked.

He added that showcasing traditional arts does more than just entertain; it fuels the passion and energy of fans cheering on the national squad.

"Their stage presence was amazing! At one point they called out, Who’s scoring the goals? I yelled back Ole Romeny!, and right away the whole troupe burst into singing Ole, ole, ole, ole. It’s such an iconic anthem for football lovers everywhere," he noted.