Sari Widiati
At Jatinegara, Traces of the ‘True State’ Remain
Once known as Meester Cornelis, Jatinegara evolved into a key satellite city alongside Kebayoran Lama, supporting the growth of old Jakarta. Today, the district remains an important centre of commerce and administration in the eastern part of the city. Its charm lies in the quiet coexistence of eras, where colonial-era architecture and historic places of
Saving the Last Guardian of Ujung Kulon
Cerita Alam Nusantara, brings together a diverse group of organisations who all have a shared purpose: to raise awareness and educate the public about the Critically Endangered Javan Rhinoceros, an ancient species that still roams the island of Java. With its population now at an alarmingly low level, the survival of this rare rhino is
Wellground: The Newest Health and Fitness Hub
Summarecon Mall Bekasi introduces an addition to its retail landscape: a rooftop sports & wellness centre known as Wellground. Conceived not merely as a sporting venue, Wellground represents a lifestyle ecosystem where fitness, personal care, and leisure converge within a single and cohesive environment. Integrating three principal components: comprehensive sports facilities, premium fitness programming, and
Topeng Betawi: Masks that Tell the Soul of Jakarta
Among the diverse mask traditions of the Indonesian archipelago, topeng Betawi stands out as one of the oldest performing arts of Jakarta’s cultural heritage. Closely associated with Lenong Topeng, a traditional Betawi folk theatre, these masks are not merely decorative elements, but essential storytelling devices that bring characters and narratives vividly to life. Born from
Kemayoran: Jakarta’s First Window to the World
Before glass towers defined Jakarta’s skyline and long-haul jets redrew the map of Southeast Asia, there was Kemayoran, a place where Indonesia first stepped onto the global stage. Long before modern airports reshaped the nation’s horizons, Kemayoran in Central Jakarta served as Indonesia’s primary gateway to the world. More than a city district or a
The AYDA Initiative: Shaping Indonesia’s Next Generation of Leaders
As the meaning of leadership continues to evolve, many young people are asking one important question: How can they develop the character, skills, and vision needed to make a meaningful difference in the world? In an age of rapid technological change, globalisation and shifting social values, academic success alone is no longer enough. The future
Eid al-Fitr: A Celebration of Faith, Compassion, and Community
Muslims around the world will observe Eid al-Fitr on the first of Shawwal 1447 Hijri, which is expected to fall on 20 March 2026 in Indonesia. This occasion marks the joyful and meaningful conclusion of Ramadan, a sacred month dedicated to worship, reflection, and self-discipline. Eid al-Fitr begins with sincere gratitude to Allah SWT, as
The Rich Flavours of a Traditional Betawi Lebaran
For the Betawi people native to Greater Jakarta, Eid al-Fitr is a meaningful time dedicated to celebrating the spirit of togetherness, strengthening connections, nurturing ties between neighbours, and preserving their cultural identity through long-held traditions. Shared customs that spotlight the rich Betawi culinary heritage are especially beloved. For the communal buffalo-sharing ritual Andilan Potong Kebo,
Erasmus Huis Bridges Netherlands-Indonesian Relations Through Culture
Looking ahead at the cultural institution’s programmes this 2026. Erasmus Huis was originally founded in 1970 on Jl Menteng Raya, Jakarta, with a strong emphasis on promoting Dutch language and culture, later relocating to the Dutch Embassy complex in Kuningan in 1981. Over the years, it has evolved into a dynamic, multi-disciplinary cultural centre presenting
Crimson Gilt: Re-reading Maritime History through Art at Museum Kebaharian Jakarta
An exhibition at the Museum Kebaharian Jakarta (Jakarta’s Maritime Museum) invites visitors to confront a layered, uncomfortable, and deeply relevant past. Crimson Gilt, a site-specific installation by Amsterdam-based artist Vincent Ruijters, runs from 7 February to 7 April 2026, offering a transnational re-reading of maritime and colonial history through art, space, and collective memory. Ruijters,
The Galette des Rois Club: Savour a Slice of France in Jakarta
A beloved French pastry tradition has landed in Indonesia. The Galette des Rois Club was officially launched at the French Residence in Jakarta on 12 January 2026, hosted by the French Ambassador to Indonesia, Timor-Leste, and ASEAN, H.E. Fabien Penone. Traditionally enjoyed around Epiphany Day on 6 January, the galette des rois is a golden,
The Old Beside the New: Kebayoran’s Constant Evolution
During the Dutch East Indies era, Kebayoran was a vast district with a long and evolving history. Today, it has grown into two distinct areas: Kebayoran Lama and Kebayoran Baru. Though geographically close, each carries its own character. Kebayoran Lama retains a strong traditional and local atmosphere, while Kebayoran Baru embodies modern living and dynamic
Looking Ahead with the French Embassy-Institut français d’Indonésie
2025 was an important milestone for the Institut Français d’Indonésie (IFI), coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and Indonesia. This celebration was complemented by strengthened political engagement and the adoption of a new Joint Cultural Strategy that deepens cultural collaboration between the two countries. The visit of President Emmanuel Macron to
