Pramono Anung Prepares Betawi Night to Welcome President of Kazakhstan
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo plans to organise an event titled “Betawi Night” to welcome Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s visit to Jakarta in June. According to Pramono, the event will serve as an opportunity to introduce Betawi culture at the international level.
“In June, the President of Kazakhstan will visit, and the Indonesian Ambassador in Kazakhstan suggested organising what they call a Betawi Night in the presence of our leadership, including the President, ministers and others, alongside the Kazakhstan President,” said Pramono in South Jakarta on Monday.
As Jakarta Governor, Pramono reiterated his commitment to making Betawi culture the identity or “soul” of the capital. Since the beginning of his tenure, he has promoted the use of traditional Betawi attire such as the ujung serong and kebaya encim at various official events, including during official installations, replacing the formal jackets or kebaya previously used.
He also emphasised the importance of presenting Betawi culture at various formal forums and cultural activities.
“I have repeatedly stated and conveyed to Betawi figures that I want this Betawi tradition to be showcased on world stages,” said Pramono.
Through this initiative, the Jakarta Provincial Government hopes that Betawi culture will become increasingly recognised globally, reflecting Jakarta’s role as an international city.