Sari Widiati
Tracing Indonesia’s Banking Journey in Kota Tua Jakarta
The history of banking in Indonesia is deeply intertwined with its legacy of colonialism and journey towards independence. To explore this rich history, visitors can wander through Kota Tua, West Jakarta, where museums vividly portray the evolution of Indonesian banking,from the Dutch colonial era to post-Reformasi (reformation). When visiting Kota Tua, Jakarta’s Old Town, most
Ki.Basic: Carrying Culture, Weaving Meaning
From its indigenous roots to its transformation into a contemporary fashion statement, the noken is more than just a bag. In the hands of Ki.Basic, this traditional woven bag from Papua has evolved into a stylish and meaningful fashion item that invites modern consumers to experience the cultural journey and philosophy behind each piece. Photos
Tari Cokek: A Cultural Fusion of Dance and Heritage
Tari cokek (cokek dance) represents a rich cultural journey rooted in the traditions of the Peranakan Chinese community in Tangerang, Banten province, and Jakarta. Once a sacred ritual performed in temples, this dance has evolved into a vibrant social and artistic expression that continues to reflect Indonesia’s dynamic multicultural spirit. Tari cokek evolved from a
Rediscovering Borobudur’s Hidden Narratives
Borobudur Temple is often seen as a grand symbol of Indonesia’s cultural heritage—a majestic structure crowned with stupas and decorated with Ramayana reliefs. Yet for painter Sohieb Toyaroja, its true essence lies hidden in plain sight. By thoughtfully studying 1,460 narrative reliefs, Sohieb distilled their ancient wisdom into just nine personal and intimate paintings. His
Jazz Amidst Majestic Mountains: BRI Jazz Gunung Series 2025 Makes a Grand Return for Its 17th Edition
One of Indonesia’s most beloved jazz festivals, the annual Jazz Gunung (jazz concert amidst the mountains), returns in 2025 under a new name, BRI Jazz Gunung Series. Now in its 17th edition, the iconic event continues to offer music lovers an unforgettable experience: enjoying the soulful and invigorating rhythms of jazz amidst the cool mountain
Setu Babakan Betawi Cultural Village: An Oasis of Living Culture
Setu Babakan Betawi Cultural Village doesn’t merely display traditions, it brings them to life. Here, Jakarta residents and visiting tourists alike can witness the Betawi way of life, traditional performances, savour authentic cuisine, and experience the daily rhythm of Jakarta’s indigenous culture. Setu Babakan Betawi Cultural Village is found in Srengseng Sawah, set beside an
A Special Home for Special Children
Rumah Ceria Down Syndrome (RCDS) is more than a learning center, it is a sanctuary. Here, children and young adults with Down Syndrome are empowered to grow, express themselves, and take steps toward a more independent future. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, the cheerful sounds of laughter and purposeful activity spill out from a
Pangsi: The Traditional Betawi Men’s Attire
Pangsi is a traditional male attire that consists of a plain, loose-fitting shirt and oversized ankle-length pants. While similar garments are worn across various Indonesian cultural groups including the Sudanese and the Malay, the Betawi Pangsi stands out with its own diverse philosophy, heritage and symbolism that embodies the modest practicality of the Betawi people,
Jakarta’s Coastal Communities: Capturing Life at the Edge of Change
Indonesian photographers have turned their lenses toward the communities of Jakarta’s coastals, capturing powerful visual narratives that reveal the day-to-day realities of life on the frontlines. Their images portray a complex story of resilience, vulnerability, and the evolving relationship between people and their shifting environment. Indonesia’s coastline extends for over 54,716 km—making it the second
Goethe-Institut’s ‘Living at the Urban Seafront’ Exhibition Puts Coastal Communities in Frame
In collaboration with the Bremen Centre for Building Culture, Goethe-Institut Indonesien presents the photography exhibition ‘Living at the Urban Seafront’. Featuring 47 works by 17 Indonesian and German photographers, the exhibition explores the lives of those caught in the intersection of land and sea. On display from 6 May to 1 June 2025, the exhibition
A Peek Inside Glodok’s Traditional Chinese Medicine Shops
Despite its image as a thriving trading centre for affordable electronic goods and authentic Chinese cuisine, Glodok has long attracted visitors fascinated by its Chinese medicine shops situated along Jl. Pancoran. People come in search of herbal remedies traditionally prepared by Chinese healers that are believed to offer effective alternative treatments for various ailments. Recognised
Jakarta Skylines: An Open-Top Tour of Jakarta
Transjakarta presents the Open Top Tour of Jakarta, a captivating new way to explore the capital. This open-air, double-decker bus experience takes passengers along the iconic Sudirman–Bundaran HI corridor, offering panoramic views of Jakarta’s landmarks and a fresh take on urban sightseeing that blends culture, history, and modern city life. The bus offers an exhilarating
A Passionate Call For the Return of Indonesia’s Golden Age of Reading Books
“We Indonesians don’t read!” is a common trope, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. Indonesia, in fact, has a rich history in reading and writing, a culture deeply rooted in the nation’s intellectual traditions. Books were the treasured tools of the country’s earliest intelligentsia, playing a fundamental role in the growth and evolution
