PRIME NEWS POST
The INDONESIAN,(Jakarta)— Marking the start of its endeavours across the land of the Betawi people, the Legal Aid Institute Jalih Pitoeng Centre, alongside Betawi community leaders and descendants, held a pilgrimage to the graves of Betawi ancestors, elders, legendary figures, and heroes at Karet Bivak Public Cemetery, Central Jakarta, on Friday (08/05/2026).
This event stands as a symbol of respect for the contributions of predecessors, while reaffirming the resolve to safeguard the dignity, unity, and honour of the Betawi community amid the ever-changing dynamics of the capital city.
Among the graves visited were those of Haji A.D. Taradipa — father of Jalih Pitoeng Centre Chairman Bagus Taradipa — and M. Yusuf Muhi, also known as Bang Ucu Kambing, father of Bardata.
Bagus Taradipa explained that this pilgrimage is far more than a mere tradition; it serves as a reminder of life’s values, the spirit of struggle, and the moral responsibility of those who inherit and steward Betawi land and heritage.
“Visiting the graves of our elders and ancestors reminds us all that nothing in this world is eternal. Every human being shall return to the Creator,” said Bagus Taradipa.
He then cited the verse from the Quran: ‘Kullu Nafsin Dza’iqatul Maut’, meaning every living soul shall taste death.
“This principle guides the Betawi community to remain humble. As long as our efforts are sincerely intended for the good of the people, we must never waver or shrink from our responsibility,” he emphasised.
Bagus also urged the younger generation of Betawi descendants to take a more active role in preserving their honour, culture, and identity as the rightful hosts of their own land.
“We hope Betawi youth will carry forward the legacy of our ancestors — protecting our dignity, self-respect, and culture so they remain respected and never fade with time,” he expressed hopefully.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Jalih Pitoeng People’s Struggle Foundation affirmed that the pilgrimage honours the scholars, legendary figures, and heroes of Betawi, who passed down their fighting spirit to future generations.
“We gather here not only to pray, but to honour our ancestors and reignite our determination to defend the interests of the Betawi community — especially the common people,” he stated.
On this occasion, Jalih Pitoeng also addressed the land dispute in the Bongkaran area of Tanah Abang, which had drawn widespread public attention. He reaffirmed his support for government programmes, particularly those providing decent housing for the community.
“We fully back government initiatives that fulfil legal mandates to improve public welfare. Housing is a fundamental human need and must be prioritised,” he said.
According to him, developing vertical housing such as apartment blocks is a strategic step to reduce overcrowding and traffic congestion in Jakarta, while providing access to better living conditions for residents.
“Vertical housing is the future solution for Jakarta. That is why the Jalih Pitoeng Centre supports the construction of apartment complexes designed to provide thousands of homes for those in need,” he explained.
He further stressed that the state must remain present and resolute in implementing development programmes for the people’s benefit.
“The state must never yield to any force or party — especially when it comes to projects that provide homes for ordinary people who are most in need,” Jalih Pitoeng concluded.
(Editor)
Reported from various media sources //photo from Google documents // contribution by Prime News Post international online media // news.paper
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