Sari Widiati
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
Goethe-Institut’s Upcoming Plans for 2026
For more than six decades, Goethe-Institut in Indonesia has actively fostered understanding of German culture and language across Indonesia. Beyond language courses and examinations, the institute provides teacher training, cultural programming, and a library that offers both physical and digital resources. Director Constanze Michel outlines the areas shaping the institution’s mission today and the initiatives
Tata Rias Besar: Traditional Betawi Wedding Attire
Betawi culture has long been shaped by diverse influences dating back to the colonial era. This multicultural heritage is clearly reflected in its traditional wedding attire, which blends European, Arabic, and Chinese elements into a distinctive and vibrant visual identity. A traditional Betawi wedding is an extended celebration filled with joy, music, and lively customs.
Hangi and Bubigi: A Feast of the Flames Unites Two Cultures
New Zealand and Indonesia recently enjoyed a moment of ‘gastronomic diplomacy’, expressed through a presentation of traditional cooking methods shared by both the Māori and Papuan peoples. Using roaring fires to heat stones that are later layered with fresh ingredients, the process produces dishes deeply rooted in ancestral culinary heritage. Beyond sustenance, this shared method
Grand Sahid Jaya Jakarta Rings in 2026 with a Futuristic Rock Explosion
The legendary hotel Grand Sahid Jaya Jakarta is gearing up to transform its iconic ballroom into a galaxy of lights, sound, and energy. Bringing the theme Rocking Space, the hotel takes its New Year’s Eve celebration with a fusion of rock music, futuristic ambiance, and five-star luxury. For decades, Grand Sahid Jaya Jakarta has been
WIC Jakarta’s 56th Annual Charity Bazaar: A Global Gathering of Giving
The Women’s International Club (WIC) Jakarta successfully hosted its 56th Annual Charity Bazaar on 19-20 November 2025, at Hall B of the Jakarta International Convention Center. The event once again brought together cultures, communities, and goodwill under one roof. This year’s bazaar was officially opened by the second lady, Selvi Gibran Rakabuming. Also in attendance
Wonderwhy Magazine Documents the Pulse of Southeast Asia
After years of digitally documenting micro-cultures across Southeast Asia, in the last year Wonderwhy ventured into the printed media landscape, sharing their stories through modern and design-forward publications that invite readers to explore authentic editorial takes. In October 2025, Wonderwhy published their third edition of the year, Mindful Eater, following the success of their two
The Untold Story of Senayan: Sacrifice, Patriotism and Transformation
Senayan, a central district of Jakarta, stands as a reminder of the importance of appreciating local history when tracing the city’s development. Its transformation into a modern business hub reflects Jakarta’s broader socioeconomic changes, yet it was made possible through the sacrifices of the city’s native residents, the Betawi people who accepted displacement in the
Urban Climbers
As an adventure sport easily found within the city limits, wall climbing has been steadily growing in popularity in Jakarta. There’s no need to head to distant cliffs or mountains, or worry about the weather, with climbing destinations located even in major malls, this urban pastime is taking sports enthusiasts to new heights. “It’s a
