Dinda Mulia
From Clubs to Courts: The Rise of Social Sports in Jakarta
Social sports are gaining pace in Jakarta, hinting at a major lifestyle shift in the city. The nightlife in Jakarta was brought to a halt when the pandemic struck. Now, five years on, the much‑anticipated resurgence of neon‑lit dance floors has yet to materialise; instead, the spotlight has shifted to padel courts, golf courses and
Beyond the Trends: Subeng Klasik’s Case on Why Heritage is Timeless
When it comes to jewellery, value is often measured by the weight of gold, the size of a stone, or the sway of trends. Yet on Benda Street in Kemang, one jeweller quietly resists this tide. When interests are easily influenced by what’s new, Subeng Klasik walks the other way– deliberate, grounded, and unapologetically Indonesian.
The Crown Jewel of British Cuisine Arrives in Jakarta
British and Indonesian cuisines might not have much in common, but the essence of comfort food runs deep in both culinary traditions. For a chef like Kirk Westaway, reimagining timeless heritage with a contemporary touch is part of his mission. And now we can experience it firsthand with the arrival of The Crown by Kirk
Lights, Camera, Action! Australian Independent School Jakarta Hosts Immersive Film Festival
In today’s digital era, visual storytelling has become the universal language of the new generation. At the Australian Independent School (AIS) in Pejaten, South Jakarta, creating space for young filmmakers to explore their craft and share their work is essential. This is shown through their recent AIS Film Festival, an immersive weeks-long event that gives
Natasha Tontey Explores the Roots of Ritual
Indigenous rituals and practices are often taken out of context, exploited or exhibited for their aesthetic and exotic appeal. In reality, such traditions are rooted in ancient wisdom and a cultural identity that tells a much deeper story. This is a message that contemporary artist Natasha Tontey conveys through her art. Tontey reclaims her Minahasan
Uncovering the History of Jakarta’s Northern Coastline
It’s easy to think of Jakarta as a sprawling metropolis of traffic and skyscrapers, but step towards the northern coastline, and you’ll uncover a different story—one where history and folklore collide. To the northwest, sites like Museum Kebaharian Jakarta (Maritime Museum) and Kota Intan Bridge stand as remnants of a colonial past and the glory
Biomaterials, Brewed Better: Bell Living Lab’s Innovative Use of Coffee Byproducts
Most wouldn’t think twice about the pulp left behind after brewing coffee, which is usually discarded without a second thought. But for Bell Living Lab, waste isn’t waste at all; it’s raw potential waiting to be turned into something valuable. This Bandung-based biomaterials producer is quietly reshaping the materials industry by taking agricultural waste and
Best Animal Parks in Jakarta: Wildlife Adventures in the Concrete Jungle
Jakarta may be a concrete jungle, but the city has no lack of opportunities for its residents to engage with the wonders of nature, especially children and families. NOW! Jakarta has come up with a list of immersive attractions that connect visitors with a range of flora and fauna. From exploring five distinct ecosystems to
Made by Margaret Yap: Shaping Stories and Purpose with Clay
6th-century Chinese philosopher Laozi, in his book Tao Te Ching, once said, “The potter shapes clay into vessels; on the wheel of life, we too are formed, bearing both beauty and purpose.” For Margaret Yap and Steven The – founders of Made by Margaret Yap Pottery-Ceramic Art Studio – like humans, pottery should be valued not
Searching for Indonesia’s Forgotten Kingdoms with Randall Rutledge’s New Book
For many Indonesians, our history is often divided into two distinct periods: pre-independence; marked by countless bloody battles to resist occupation by Dutch and Japanese colonial forces, and post-independence; the era of political turmoil foretold by Sukarno, who correctly predicted that the struggle against our own nation would be far harder than fighting external enemies.
Why Jakarta Needs Art Communities, with Ayu Utami of Salihara Art Centre
What does Jakarta need to do in order to be recognised as a cultural city? In this opinion series, NOW! Jakarta hears from the leaders of the city’s artistic institutions to gain insight into fostering and developing specific areas of culture. Ayu Utami of Salihara Art Centre talks to us about art communities and festivals.
Jakarta’s Cultural Communities: Seeking the Artistic Connection
Jakarta’s cultural communities know that the very essence of art is community: it can only thrive on human connection and inter-activity. It can also bridge divides and unite differences. And in a world where rapidly evolving technologies are in fact isolating us further from each other, we must find ways to connect and engage in
Best Jakarta Workshops: Create Your Own Bespoke Gifts
If you’re looking for something unique to do over the weekend, why not join one of the many Jakarta workshops available in the city? From working with ceramics to learning the ins and outs of scents and smells, there are many opportunities to learn new skills and discover a unique hobby. Whether you’re looking to
