The Acting Head of Kalibaru Urban Village, Sutarto, opened the Kalibaru Festival themed “United and Empowered” on August 30–31, 2025, at Plaza Kalibaru, Cilincing, North Jakarta. He explained that this festival is a yearly flagship program held to celebrate Indonesia’s Independence Day while boosting community pride and awareness of local culture. He emphasized that the event was not only about entertainment but also about preserving cultural heritage and strengthening neighborhood ties. The message was clear: Kalibaru is a place where tradition and unity remain deeply rooted.
Various activities filled the festival, ranging from food bazaars and seafood markets to mass aerobics, cultural carnivals, fishermen’s boat parades, and live music performances. Sutarto noted his gratitude to all who supported the initiative, saying it truly lifted the spirits of residents. He promised that the second day would bring even bigger celebrations, showcasing the resilience of Kalibaru’s coastal community. The overall atmosphere captured both festivity and a shared sense of belonging.
The Acting Head of the North Jakarta Cultural Sub-Department, Mis’ari, expressed full support and appreciation for the festival. He described it as an important cultural platform for expression, social bonding, and community education. According to him, Kalibaru’s cultural spirit contributes to economic growth while positioning Jakarta as a global city. His remarks underscored that coastal traditions should be nurtured as pillars of identity.
Meanwhile, local resident Suherman, 38, voiced pride and joy at being part of the celebration. He strongly supported its continuation as an annual event, highlighting its role in promoting small businesses and fishermen’s livelihoods. He described the festival as always vibrant, unifying, and uplifting for the community. In his words, Kalibaru Festival is a true people’s celebration, one that embodies both economic potential and cultural strength.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
