For the ninth time, Jakarta Provincial Government holds the Door-bolting Festival, or locally known as Palang Pintu Festival, to enliven Jakarta’s 487th anniversary which falls on June 22. The festival, which highlighted Betawi’s culture, is held on Jalan Kemang Raya, South Jakarta, until tomorrow, Sunday (8/6).

Palang Pintu Festival is an example of festival that is growing from the people, by the people, and for the people

“Palang Pintu Festival is an example of festival that is growing from the people, by the people, and for the people,” said Deputy Governor for Jakarta Tourism and Cultural Division, Sylviana Murni, when opening the festival, Saturday (6/7).

Murni assessed that this festival is very good for the development and preservation of culture as it grows from public awareness. “This is very good for the preservation and development of culture, especially Betawi’s, considering this idea comes directly from the residents. We, as government, strongly support it,” she stated.

According to Murni, Jakarta Provincial Government really wants each sub-district to develop their area’s potentials and hold similar event like Kemang Palang Pintu Festival, Jalan Jaksa Festival, Pasar Baru Festival, and Pesisir Festival. “Each sub-district should have had festival. We them by gathering entrepreneurs who want to join in it,” she uttered.

Azizah (28), one of Palang Pintu Festival visitors, admitted that this is the fourth time she visited the festival. “I’ve come to this Palang Pintu Festival four times. I usually come on the first day to see the palang pintu cont est because it is rarely seen. The contest is festive and good. Surely many people want to use this procession when going to marry,” expressed the women who lives in Condet, East Jakarta.

Dozens of Betawi cultural studios take part in this festival. While in the palang pintu procession, it is enlivened by a convoy bringing crocodile breads and other Betawian culinary, as well as exhibition of Betawi’s traditional martial arts moves. In the Palang Pintu Festival this year, a number of cultures will also be displayed, such as Betawi dances and Betawi humorous traditional theater (lenong), as well as various handicrafts showcased by 300 booths which established along Jalan Kemang Raya.