Traditional Betawi arts and performances took center stage at the fourth Betawi Mask Festival, held at the courtyard of the Center for Chemical Industry Research (BBIK) in East Jakarta on Saturday (Aug. 1). Carrying the theme “Nimbrung-nya Orang Betawi,” the event was organized by the Mak Manih Nirin Kumpul Art Studio Foundation and officially opened by East Jakarta Culture Sub-agency Head Berkah Shadaya. The festival aimed to celebrate and preserve Betawi cultural heritage while strengthening community ties. It also served as a platform to showcase the richness of Jakarta’s indigenous traditions.
Berkah Shadaya praised the festival for helping preserve Betawi culture amid the growing influence of foreign cultures in the digital era. He said regular cultural events are essential to ensuring that traditional arts remain relevant and continue to be passed down to younger generations. According to him, community art studios play an important role in safeguarding and promoting local cultural heritage. He also encouraged more organizations to hold similar events to keep traditional Betawi arts alive.
According to Pekayon Village Secretary Karwadi, the festival was also held to honor the late Betawi artist Mak Manih Nirin Kumpul. The event featured a Topeng Betawi dance performance by 12 young professional dancers and attracted enthusiastic participation from residents throughout the day. Visitors also enjoyed a wide range of traditional performances, including Betawi comedy, Gambang Kromong music, Tanjidor, Malay orchestra, Pencak Silat, Palang Pintu, Betawi dance, and Hadroh. The variety of performances highlighted the diversity of Betawi cultural traditions.
The festival also included a bazaar featuring 60 local micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) offering food, beverages, handicrafts, and fashion products. Organizers said the theme “Nimbrung-nya Orang Betawi” was chosen to promote togetherness, strengthen social bonds, and encourage community interaction. By combining cultural performances with support for local businesses, the event sought to preserve Betawi heritage while contributing to the local economy. Organizers hope the festival will continue to inspire public appreciation for Betawi culture and encourage greater participation from younger generations.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
