Pasar Lawas Mataram 2026 Adopts 'Momor, Momong, Momot' Theme
The seventh iteration of Pasar Lawas Mataram Kotagede has returned, adopting the theme ‘Momor, Momong, Momot’. Unlike previous years when the event was held in the evening, this year’s opening took place in the afternoon on Friday (25/09/2026) at the courtyard of the Masjid Gedhe Mataram, Jagalan, Banguntapan, featuring various traditional art performances and nostalgic snacks.
The chairman of the Pasar Lawas Mataram committee, Fauzan, explained the meaning behind the ‘Momor, Momong, Momot’ theme. He noted that Pasar Lawas Mataram serves as a space for the community to gather, socialise, and rediscover the atmosphere of the past.
“‘Momor’ is similar to ‘awur’ (spreading/sharing). In Pasar Lawas Mataram, we provide a venue for socialising and sharing. In Javanese terms, it is about enjoying the old atmosphere while watching performances and gathering together,” said Fauzan.
The ‘omong’ element of the theme, according to Fauzan, relates to the spirit of gathering in a harmonious and communal manner.
Meanwhile, ‘momot’ refers to the intention to capture aspirations and explore more potential in the arts and culture present in Kotagede, in line with the event’s concept.
“For this year, we are digging deeper into the potential of art performances. We have invited many art attractions, such as Pencak Silat,” he explained.
In addition to the art performances, Pasar Lawas Mataram introduces a new initiative compared to previous years: a campaign to reduce the use of plastic bags through the sale of ‘kreneng’, which are eco-friendly woven bamboo baskets.
“This year, we also have a campaign to reduce plastic bag usage. We are selling ‘kreneng’ to visitors so they do not need to use plastic bags and can carry more snacks. The ‘kreneng’ we sell is also environmentally friendly,” said Fauzan.
The Regent of Bantul, Abdul Halim Muslih, who attended the event, expressed his appreciation for the consistency of the Jagalan community and its youth in organising Pasar Lawas Mataram for seven consecutive years.
“I am very impressed by the solidarity of the Jagalan Kotagede youth who have successfully organised Pasar Lawas Mataram into its seventh year. I believe this is an extraordinary effort that must be maintained,” he said.
He also noted that the organisation of Pasar Lawas Mataram is part of an effort to fight for cultural sustainability.
“You are all top-notch. This is one of the cultural struggles that must continue to exist,” he added.
A total of more than 50 MSME (UMKM) tenants are participating in the event. Each stall offers various unique traditional snacks for visitors to try, ranging from jenang, clorot, and ipau, among others. In addition to culinary delights, there are stalls selling various traditional toys so that the current generation of children can become more familiar with classic games. Visitors can enjoy the series of events running from 25 September to 27 September 2026.