Betawi Lebaran: Harmony of Tradition and Global City
Betawi Lebaran is more than just an occasion for socialising; it is a concrete step towards preserving tradition. Jakarta (ANTARA) - Jakarta proclaims itself as a Global and Cultured City. This proclamation is not without reason, but rather a strong effort to integrate modernisation with the local Betawi culture.
The Betawi ethnic group consists of the original inhabitants of Batavia—now Jakarta—and its surroundings, possessing a diverse cultural heritage including arts, traditional dances, distinctive foods, attire, traditions, and more.
Some iconic Betawi arts include Ondel-ondel, Lenong, Tanjidor, and Gambang Kromong. Additionally, Betawi has renowned signature dishes such as Kerak Telor, Soto Betawi, and Gabus Pucung.
Traditional Betawi attire includes the kebaya encim worn by women, and the baju sadariah for men. Furthermore, there is the palang pintu tradition, which is still commonly encountered in various Betawi-specific events.
Betawi culture constitutes the identity of the residents of DKI Jakarta. Therefore, this identity must be continuously maintained and preserved so that it does not become merely a fairy tale for future generations.
Cultural preservation can be achieved through various methods, including education for the younger generation, habituation in daily life, and support from government programmes.
One effort to preserve Betawi culture is through the Betawi Lebaran event. This annual celebration held after Eid al-Fitr plays a strategic role in strengthening community unity while reinforcing Jakarta’s cultural identity as a global city firmly rooted in local traditions.
Preserving Betawi culture cannot be limited to mere artistic performances or festivals. Preservation requires ongoing efforts to safeguard cultural values, strengthen identity, and instil them in the younger generation as part of everyday life.
Therefore, understanding and preserving Betawi culture is a shared responsibility of all Jakarta residents.
“Betawi culture is the primary identity that must continue to live and develop amid changing times,” said Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung during the opening of Betawi Lebaran on Saturday (11/4).
In 2008, the Betawi Consultative Body (Bamus) initiated Betawi Lebaran as an event to foster social ties among residents following the Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
At the beginning of its organisation, Betawi Lebaran lasted only one day. However, with increasing public enthusiasm, the celebration was later extended to three days.
Betawi Lebaran, which has been designated as an annual agenda by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, needs to be continuously preserved because it features a variety of cultural activities that not only entertain but also play a role in maintaining traditions.
The General Chairman of the Betawi Consultative Body (Bamus), Riano P. Ahmad, stated that Betawi Lebaran is an important moment for maintaining social ties while preserving traditions passed down through generations.