History & Heritage

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

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

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

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,

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

The northern Javanese coastline that Jakarta calls home was once rich with coconut trees, which has become reflected in traditional Betawi cuisine. For centuries, the Betawi people used what was abundant in their surroundings for nourishment, finding many ways to use but a handful of ingredients in creative and resourceful ways. With simple ingredients like

Literally translating to “coconut flower,” kembang kelapa is a classic Betawi decorative element, a symbol of blessings, prosperity, and respect for tradition.  Jakarta residents might frequently encounter this decorative item without knowing its name. Brightly coloured and crafted from paper or other lightweight materials, it is shaped to resemble the blossoming of a coconut flower.

In the traditional Betawi wedding ceremony, it’s mandatory for the prospective groom to bring roti buaya (crocodile-shaped breads) to the prospective bride as a symbol of everlasting love and marital fidelity. The existence of this symbol was influenced by Batavia’s topography and European culture. The Europeans who settled in Batavia (Jakarta) undoubtedly influenced the local

Transcending the very notion of a hotel, House of Tugu, Old Town Jakarta invites guests to explore an almost other-wordly realm, defined by timeless artefacts, art pieces and antiques rooted in Jakarta’s own rich history. Standing across the banks of Kali Besar, in the true historical heart of the city, House of Tugu, Old Town

The intriguing historical discoveries uncovered during MRT Jakarta construction Phase 2A. Remnants of Jakarta’s colonial history, from when it was known as Batavia, have been hiding beneath the surface of the megacity we know today. Dutch infrastructure and historic artefacts from 300 years ago have been rediscovered during the excavation process for the MRT Jakarta

After a year-long closure, Museum Nasional Indonesia (MNI) was officially reopened on 15 October 2024. Having undergone substantial renovations, the museum reopens with modern appeal, complete with fresh new archives and displays, as well as interactive and educational programmes promising an engaging experience for visitors. On 16 September 2023 at 7:58 pm, a fire caused

Originally built as part of Weltevreden, an elite residential area on the outskirts of Batavia, what we know now as Cikini is certainly one of Jakarta’s important historical areas. Many stories are found here, from the birth of Indonesia’s first zoo to the attempted assassination of President Soekarno. Despite experiencing rapid development, many heritage buildings