Artha Graha Peduli Promotes Jamu as a Local Beverage That Holds Its Own Against Global Trends

Jamu is one of Indonesia’s cultural heritages that received attention during the 81st Independence Day celebration themed ‘Harmoni Kemerdekaan’ held by Artha Graha Peduli in the SCBD area on Monday (17/8/2026). Jamu was seen as an important part of efforts to reintroduce the nation’s cultural wealth and local wisdom to the public.

Director of PT Creative Event Entertainment, Ananta Pribadi, explained that the Harmoni Kemerdekaan event prioritised Indonesian culture, both in terms of cuisine and cultural heritage. One area of particular focus was jamu.

‘What we are highlighting today is jamu. Why jamu? Jamu is an invaluable cultural heritage of Indonesia,’ Ananta told reporters.

Ananta believes jamu needs to secure a special position amid the onslaught of foreign beverages. He is convinced that the presence of jamu must be continuously safeguarded so that it remains close to the Indonesian people.

‘We want jamu to have a special position in Indonesia. Amid the onslaught of thematic drinks from abroad, we need to keep jamu alive in the hearts of the Indonesian people,’ Ananta said.

Ananta noted that efforts to introduce jamu were not limited to serving the traditional drink. There were also jamu-making workshops and jamu blind tastings to test the public’s knowledge of jamu.

Through the blind tastings, participants were invited to try various types of jamu while guessing the ingredients or compositions contained in them. This approach is expected to help the public become more familiar with jamu directly while providing an engaging experience.

Ananta said the strengthening of local culture is also in line with efforts to promote the concept of wellness or health based on Indonesian local wisdom. According to him, jamu has an important role in reintroducing Indonesia’s traditional wealth in the context of health and fitness.

‘We are also encouraging local wisdom for wellness or health in Indonesia,’ Ananta said.

In addition, the Harmoni Kemerdekaan event also presented a variety of distinctive Indonesian culinary offerings served by MSME players. The products on display came from western to eastern Indonesia. Cultural elements were further reinforced through traditional dance and music performances, including the Kecak dance and sape music from Kalimantan.