The South Jakarta City Administration once again hosted the Mikul Buah Cultural Festival at the Palapa Training Field in Pasar Minggu, celebrating the area’s rich horticultural heritage. The annual event, which reflects the historical tradition of carrying harvested fruit, earned an Original Record Indonesia (ORI) Award for setting a new record. The festival highlighted Pasar Minggu’s legacy as a major horticultural research and production center dating back to the Dutch colonial era. Organizers said the event aims to preserve local traditions while promoting community pride.
South Jakarta Mayor Syafrin Liputo said the festival carries significant historical value because Pasar Minggu was once recognized nationally and internationally for its abundant fruit production. He explained that the tradition of farmers carrying their harvests together symbolizes hard work, discipline, and cooperation. According to Syafrin, these values should be passed on to younger generations to ensure that the area’s cultural heritage remains alive. He emphasized that preserving local history is essential as Jakarta continues to develop as a global city.
Beyond cultural preservation, the festival also served as an educational platform promoting waste management and environmental awareness. Residents were encouraged to view waste as part of a circular economy with economic value rather than simply something to discard. Syafrin stressed that building a culture of cleanliness and proper waste sorting would strengthen the city’s resilience in facing future challenges. He also praised local government officials and community members for their continued commitment to preserving Betawi traditions and supporting the local economy.
Festival chairman Suparno said the two-day event, held from June 27 to 28, commemorated Pasar Minggu’s approximately 105-year history. The festival featured 80 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) showcasing local products, while 220 participants joined the iconic fruit-carrying parade. He noted that the strong participation reflected both the preservation of local traditions and the community’s spirit of cooperation. Organizers hope the festival will continue growing in the coming years, helping promote Betawi culture while supporting Jakarta’s identity as a modern global city with deep cultural roots.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
