Jakarta Vice Governor, Ahmad Riza Patria gave his appreciation to all elements of society for supporting the existence of Betawi culture as one of the national identities.

Thank you to all elements of society for preserving Betawi culture

It was conveyed when he gave trophies for the winners of virtual Betawi dance competition at Setu Babakan Betawi Cultural Village (PBB), Srengseng Sawah, Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, on Saturday (8/29).

This competition was held by Jakarta Cultural Agency through cooperation with Betawi Cultural Institute (LKB) and Indonesian Betawi Traditional Silar Association (Astrabi) since July 18, 2020.

"Thank you to all elements of society for preserving Betawi culture and have give us benefits, especially for the younger generation. We need to protect Betawi culture as a part of national identities that we love and proud of," he conveyed as quoted from Jakarta PPID Press Release.

He explained that Betawi culture mustn't fade along with the times even though it is in a very modern era. According to him, the continuity of Betawi culture must be maintained by younger generation, especially those who have won the virtual Betawi dance competition.

"To the children I am proud of, I am really happy that all of you remain active and creative during this pandemic. All parties must work together to preserve the culture, thus we hope you can continue to be proud and happy in participating Betawi cultural arts activities. Hopefully you will not be complacent, if possible, not only participating in Setu Babakan but also at national and international levels," he conveyed.

His side also received input from LKB thus the existence of Betawi culture could be prioritized as Regional Strategy Activities (KSD) for Jakarta Government.

"Please convey your hopes regarding Betawi culture, later the government will prioritize it because we will definitely consider almost every positive inputs and ideas," he added.

For information, there were 12 winners of virtual Betawi dance competition that won the Vice Governor Trophy which divided in two categories based on age, children and teenager.

The winners for children category were Alisa Adelia, Amira Sarah, Nazahalta Namira, Atika Julianti, Naura Artalita, and Rubina Ramadhina. While for teenager category were Monica Clairine Adelia, Saly Fadiananda, Rachel Isti Hawa, Ganisa Wisnu, Nesya Cahya, and Apriliana Dwi Hartanti. Total prizes received by the winners amounted to Rp 13,500,000.

This activity was also attended by Jakarta Culture Agency Head, Iwan Henry Wardhana; Jagakarsa Sub-district Head, Alamsyah; Srengseng Sawah Urban Village Head, Adhi Suryo; Setu Babakan UPK PBB Head, Imron; South Jakarta Culture Sub-agency Head, Puspla Dirdjaja; LKB Chairperson, Beki Mardani; and Astrabi Chairperson, Anwar Albatawi.