Discover Jakarta
From Wilhelmina Park to Istiqlal Mosque: The History of Jakarta’s Most Symbolic Site
The site on which Istiqlal Mosque was built near Pasar Baru in Central Jakarta, was once the colonial-era Wilhelmina Park, which also extended towards the Jakarta Cathedral. The historic Lapangan Banteng square and Medan Merdeka are also nearby—both clear examples of how post-independence Jakarta rewrote the meaning of its inherited spaces. Long before Southeast Asia’s
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
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.
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
Time Capsule: Hotel des Indes and Its Many Afterlives
Once a colonial hotel, later Duta Merlin, and now part of an MRT-linked future, this Harmoni site has moved through several urban afterlives It is not an exaggeration to say that at Harmoni, one stretch of ground has carried more than one city upon it. For much of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, that ground
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
A City for Curious Learners: Inspiring Destinations For Young Minds
Every aspiration starts with inspiration, and for children, a single experience can shift how they see the world. With increasing appreciation for the early enrichment of young learners, Jakarta is offering more and more opportunities for them to be introduced to new ideas and interests; to immerse themselves in the engaging worlds of history, art,
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.
