Discover Jakarta
The Long Life of Metropole XXI Cinema
It is hard to miss Metropole XXI when walking around Cikini, Central Jakarta. Located near the junction ofJl. Diponegoro, Jl. Pegangsaan Timur, and Jl. Proklamasi, the multipurpose building stands out with its stark-white exterior and looming tower. Its name, arranged vertically in gold lettering, immediately draws the eye. Designed by architect Liauw Goan Seng, Metropole
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 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,
Societeit de Harmonie: Before Car Parks, There Was Champagne
One of these days when exploring Jakarta, you might come across Harmoni’s nonstop traffic, and see hurried civil servants coming in and out of the unassuming area of the Ministry of State Secretariat. What is now a governmental zone, used to be the epicentre of Batavia’s high society, where the grandest balls and most exclusive
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
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.
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
Cikini 82: Exploring the House Where the Republic Was Born
When passing the main road of Cikini, it is almost impossible to miss Cikini 82 with its tall trellis gate and the unmistakable facade of Dutch colonial architecture. With its expansive veranda, framed by wooden pillars exuding a style often found in many Betawi and Javanese houses, this property stands as a monumental anchor between
A New Green Sanctuary in West Jakarta: Taman Doa Kasih Mulia Sejati
What began as an idea for the 25th anniversary celebration of Yayasan Kasih Mulia Sejati has become one of West Jakarta’s most gentle surprises. On the quiet stretch of Jalan Pakis Raya, Bojong Indah, the foundation built Taman Doa Kasih Mulia Sejati, a thoughtfully designed urban oasis that invites reflection and renewal. This 5,000-square-metre garden
Gabus Pucung: The Dish That Binds Betawi Families
This traditional Betawi dish takes its name from its two key ingredients: gabus (snakehead fish) and pucung, the seed of the kepayang tree. Once a common meal in the swamps and rice paddies of old Jakarta, gabus pucung today is often prepared for special occasions and cherished as a symbol of friendship and togetherness. The
Best Shopping Malls in Jakarta: The Top Shopping, Dining and Entertainment Centres
While their sheer number may occasionally add to the notorious traffic, shopping malls in Jakarta have transcended past being just retail centres to become the city’s modern day community spaces, where locals and tourists alike come together to not just shop, but also unwind in urban life while escaping the tropical heat and bustle. From
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
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
