Sari Widiati
The History that Hides on the Thousand Islands
Beyond their white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and tranquil seaside resorts, Kepulauan Seribu (the Thousand Islands) offers fascinating island-hopping experiences steeped in heritage and history. Since the early 17th century, they have served as buffer zones and defensive outposts for the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and later, the Dutch colonial administration. Today, these historical remains
Beyond K-Pop: KCCI Expands Cultural Exchange
Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1973, South Korea and Indonesia have continued to strengthen cooperation across a wide range of fields. While the relationship was initially centred largely on economic and industrial collaboration, the past decade has seen a significant shift towards a more cultural and people-oriented partnership. Recognising this growing exchange, the Korean Cultural
The Distinctive Flavours of Betawi Satay
Sate, or satay, is one of Indonesia’s most beloved traditional dishes. Consisting of skewered and grilled meat served with richly seasoned accompaniments, sate can be found across the archipelago in countless regional variations. The Betawi people of Jakarta have also developed their own interpretations of sate, including the distinctive sate asam manis and sate lembut.
ARTJOG 2026 Celebrates Art Across Generations
ARTJOG 2026 opens a new chapter as it enters its second decade. Under the theme ARS LONGA: GENERATIO, the first installment of the three-year ARS LONGA TRILOGIA, the festival explores how art continues to connect generations and remains relevant amid changing social, cultural and political conditions. Held from 19 June to 30 August 2026 at
Collect Memories, Not Just Miles: Indonesia’s New Museum Passport Turns Culture into a Journey
Indonesia has unveiled an engaging new way to explore the country’s cultural landscape. The Museum Passport invites visitors to discover Indonesian history, art and heritage through a series of meaningful journeys that transform sightseeing into a cultural adventure. Launched by the Museum and Cultural Heritage Agency (Badan Layanan Umum Museum dan Cagar Budaya Kementerian Kebudayaan)
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,
