Sari Widiati
Best Theatres in Jakarta: 6 Beautiful Concert Halls and Performance Venues
Jakarta is not on the global map for arts and culture events, but it should be. With its mix of historical and modern venues, its immensely talented people, and a rich history of performing arts, music, dance and cultural expression, it could easily rival its Asian competitors. But where do you go to witness it
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
Celebrating Ramadan & Idul Fitri Indonesian Traditions
In 2025, the holy month of Ramadan will take place from 1 to 30 March, followed by the holiday season of Eid al-Fitr, better known as Lebaran here in Indonesia. Home to the largest Muslim population in the world, these are important religious observations for the majority of the country, where ritual fasting, communal fast-breaking,
United through Badminton: 75 Years of Denmark-Indonesia Diplomatic Relations
This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Denmark and Indonesia. To celebrate, the Embassy of Denmark in Jakarta, with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark and sponsorship from Danish and Indonesian companies, hosted a special badminton tournament. Badminton has long been a shared passion in both countries, symbolising friendship,
Celebrating Love, Intellectualism, and Democracy at Wisma Habibie and Ainun
The home of Indonesia’s third president, known affectionately as B.J. Habibie, is now open to the public. Named Wisma Habibie and Ainun (WHA), Jakarta’s newest historical landmark showcases the legacy of the former president and his wife Ainun, who immortalized the values of love, intellectualism, and democracy through their life’s journey together. NOW! Jakarta had
Why Jakarta Needs Cultural Collaboration, with Bambang Prihadi of Jakarta Arts Council
What does Jakarta need to do in order to be recognised as a cultural city? In this opinion series, NOW! Jakarta hears from the leaders of the city’s artistic institutions to gain insight into fosteringand developing specific areas of culture. Bambang Prihadi of Jakarta Arts Council talks to us about cultural collaboration. For the past five decades,
Why Jakarta Needs Music, with Nathania Karina of TRUST
What does Jakarta need to do in order to be recognised as a cultural city? In this opinion series, NOW! Jakarta hears from the leaders of the city’s artistic institutions to gain insight into fosteringand developing specific areas of culture. Nathania Karina of TRUST Orchestra talks to us about music. Nathania Karina and the Trinity Youth Symphony
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
SukkhaCitta: Securing the Roots of Fashion
The proverb “it takes a village” rings true for more things than just raising a child. In the case of Indonesia’s most sustainable fashion brand, SukkhaCitta, it is in the villages where real positive impact can be made. Here is how a ‘farm-to-closet’ philosophy changed fashion’s relationship with nature, culture and community.The modern fashion industry
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
The Charm of Cikini, Where Jakarta’s Past and Present Co-Exist
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
