City Government Commits to Preserve and Promote Betawi Culture

The Jakarta Government is committed to finalizing the Bylaw on the Betawi Indigenous Community.

I hope this culture also becomes part of the formal education in schools,"

Jakarta Governor, Pramono Anung stated, the resolution of the Bylaw on the Betawi Indigenous Community is a mandate from Law Number 2/2024.

The statement was delivered during the Sarasehan III Young Betawi Caucus event: "Welcoming Jakarta's 498th Anniversary and Betawi Community Customary Institution 2025 at Mercure Hotel Ancol, North Jakarta, Monday (6/2).

City Government and Hotels Promote Betawi Culture to the Global Stage

"This is part of our commitment to complete Law Number 2/2024. The law mandates it. The momentum is now. If not, we will face difficulties," he explained.

One of the Jakarta Government's commitments to preserving and promoting Betawi culture is the plan to prohibit the ondel-ondel art from being used as a tool for busking. Pramono wante the ondel-ondel art to be more appreciated by the community.

"To elevate the dignity of Betawi culture, we must make it something that is highly respected by everyone, not just a culture for busking," he uttered.

Therefore, he requested the Jakarta Culture Agency to promote Betawi culture by showcasing it in several places. The Jakarta Government had previously collaborated with 10 five-star hotels to further promote Betawi culture.

One of them is at Borobudur Hotel, where traditional Betawi food will be served for two months. Additionally, Betawi ornaments will also be added in various places, such as at Tugu Stadium, Koja Sub-district, North Jakarta.

Besides symbols, Betawi culture should also be included and showcased at various events.

He even requested that some new hospital names incorporate elements of Betawi figures to strengthen cultural identity.

"I've discussed this with the Head of Health Agency," he stressed.

He added Betawi culture is one of the main strengths for Jakarta to become a cultured global city.

"I really want to ensure that the Betawi customary institution or Betawi identity is well-designed," he asserted.

The same statement also came from Jakarta City Council Chief, Khoirudin.

"Our commitment is to the issuance of Bylaw on Advancement of Betawi Culture, Insya Allah (God willing), I am very committed," he stressed.

Despite there are 30 priority draft bylaws that must be completed this year, he promised to prioritize the completion of the Regulation on Advancement of Betawi Culture.

After receiving the draft from the Executive, his party would prepare this draft bylaw through discussions in the Council's Legislation Body (Bapemperda) by inviting practitioners, community leaders, and stakeholders related to Betawi culture.

"Besides bylaw and ceremonial aspects, I hope this culture also becomes part of the formal education in schools," he hoped.