Setu Babakan, a lake with Betawi flavor

In southern Jakarta, away from the hustle and bustle, lies a beautiful lake called Setu Babakan. Around the lake in Jagakarsa district, live hundreds of Betawi families.

Visitors to the area can feel the continuing vibrancy of Betawi culture, mostly by the sound of the brash, yet cute Betawi dialect being spoken.

The Jakarta administration has designated Setu Babakan as a Betawi cultural preservation site where residents and artists regularly stage traditional Betawi dances and lenong, the Betawi comedy performances.

In addition to being a tourist site, Babakan lake also serves as a key water catchment area. -- Text and photos by P.J. Leo