South Jakarta Culture Agency Holds Betawi Arts and Culture Events to Welcome DKI's 499th Anniversary

The South Jakarta City Administration’s Culture Agency (Sudinbud Jaksel) is holding a series of events themed around Betawi arts and culture to welcome the 499th Anniversary of DKI Jakarta. Head of the South Jakarta Culture Agency, Encu Suhani, stated that the agency is supporting various art and cultural performances, such as traditional dance, lenong, palang pintu, and other cultural displays. He said the activities are also aimed at empowering art studios and cultural practitioners in the South Jakarta area. The implementation of these activities reaches almost all areas of South Jakarta, with various themes tailored to the characteristics and needs of each region. “Through these activities, it is hoped that Betawi cultural values and Nusantara culture can be preserved, while increasing community participation in enlivening the commemoration of DKI Jakarta’s Anniversary and the Republic of Indonesia’s Anniversary,” said Encu. He further explained that his agency is holding a series of festivals showcasing the richness of arts, culture, creativity, and traditional sports involving active community participation. These include the 2nd Mikul Buah Festival and the ORI Record attempt for a 500-person Mikul Buah Parade on 27-28 June 2026, as well as the Jagakarsa Gambang Kromong Festival on 27-28 June 2026. All these art and cultural performances are expected to strengthen community togetherness and foster a love for Jakarta, which this year reaches the age of 499. “The public is expected to attend and participate in this series of festivals to jointly celebrate Jakarta’s long journey towards its fifth century,” Encu stated.