Monumental Places of Worship: Religious Diversity in Jakarta

A trio of unique but equally astounding places of worship stand on the borders surrounding Merdeka Square, their shared presence symbolic of Indonesia’s mission to uphold religious diversity. The Immanuel Church, Jakarta Cathedral and the Istiqlal Mosque are destinations in their own rights; even for non-worshipping guests, the architecture and history of each of these

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Guide to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: Jakarta’s Cultural Theme Park

Located in East Jakarta, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is a cultural theme park that encapsulates the rich diversity of Indonesia’s heritage. Envisioned by the wife of Suharto, Siti Hartinah (better known as Ibu Tien Suharto), it was inaugurated in April 1975. Taman Mini certainly followed the ethos of President Suharto’s government, one focused on

Guide to Kota Tua & Fatahillah Square: Jakarta’s Historic Centre

Quite literally named ‘Old Town’, Jakarta’s historic centre is found at Kota Tua, where remnants of a colonial past stand as reminders of the city’s past life as the Dutch-run Batavia. At the very heart of Kota Tua is Batavia’s old city hall, an imposing-yet-impressive building that epitomises colonial architecture at the time, in front

Guide to Monas: Indonesia’s National Monument in Jakarta

The heart of Jakarta lies in Medan Merdeka, a sprawling, 75-hectare open square; the third largest in the world. It is an oasis in the very centre of the city, where the parks and fields spread generously across the area, accentuating the plaza’s epic centre piece: Monas, or Monumen Nasional, Indonesia’s towering monolith in honour

Kembang Kelapa: Betawi’s Token of Prosperity

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.

Books and Beyond: A Reader’s Guide to Jakarta’s Independent Bookstores

Jakarta is home to a diverse range of independent bookstores catering to readers with differing tastes and preferences — from foreign language titles and best sellers to second-hand books and niche genres. The result is a contrasting literary scene where legendary bookstores have stood against the test of time to thrive alongside their emerging peers

Roti Buaya: A Symbol of Loyalty

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

House-of-Tugu-Old-Jakarta-Jajaghu-Restaurant

Enter the House of Tugu, Old Town Jakarta

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 History Beneath Our Feet

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

Museum Nasional Indonesia Rises from the Ashes

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

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