Fauzi Bowo's Message on Betawi Lebaran
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — The 2026 Betawi Lebaran celebration was held in a simpler atmosphere as a form of concern for the ongoing social conditions and global dynamics.
Chairman of the Custom Council of the Betawi Elders Assembly (MKB) Fauzi Bowo stated that the decision was made considering the world’s situation, which is still shrouded in uncertainty, as well as the community’s conditions that have not fully recovered, both socially and economically.
“The current global situation creates uncertainty. We also see that many of our brothers and sisters are still facing difficulties,” said Fauzi during the Betawi Lebaran celebration at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta, on Saturday.
He added that several factors were considered, from the impact of natural disasters domestically to humanitarian conflicts in the Gaza Strip and tensions in the Middle East region that affect the global condition.
According to Fauzi, this simplification does not diminish the meaning of the celebration but serves as a momentum to enhance empathy and social solidarity within society.
Although held more simply, he stressed that the essence of Betawi Lebaran as a space for cultural preservation remains intact. This event is not merely an annual ceremony post-Ramadan but also an important reminder for Jakarta’s residents to nurture their Betawi cultural identity.
“Values such as maintaining ties, mutual cooperation, togetherness, and respect for elders must continue to be upheld and passed on,” said Fauzi.
One tradition that is still maintained is antaran or sorogan, which is a symbolic giving as a form of respect from the young to the elders or from subordinates to superiors.
Fauzi emphasised that this tradition is part of Betawi local wisdom rich in moral and spiritual values, not a form of gratification.
“This is an expression of reverence and respect, not gratification,” he said.
Furthermore, he stated that the tradition reflects harmonious social relations while strengthening inter-generational and inter-institutional relations within society.
This year’s Betawi Lebaran celebration was also designed as an inclusive space for all citizens. In addition to the grand halal bihalal, the event featured various Betawi cultural attractions and cuisine that can be enjoyed by the wider public.
With the theme “Betawi Lebaran for Jakarta: Strengthening Unity in Nurturing Traditions Towards a Global Jakarta City”, the event is expected to bolster Jakarta’s position as a global city that remains rooted in local values.