The INDONESIAN — The Majelis Kaum Betawi (MKB), or Betawi Community Council, held a public outreach event titled “The Role of the Majelis Kaum Betawi” on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Diradja Hotel, Mampang, South Jakarta. The event aimed to strengthen MKB’s strategic role as a forum for the preservation, development, and revitalization of Betawi cultural values in support of regionally rooted and character-driven development.
The event was attended by several prominent Betawi figures and regional officials, including:
- H. Marullah Matali, Lc., M.A., Chair of the Board of Trustees of Majelis Kaum Betawi and Regional Secretary of the Jakarta Provincial Government;
- Maj. Gen. (Ret.) H. Narcrowi Ramli, Chair of the Betawi Customary Council of Bamus Suku Betawi 1982;
- H. Zaenudin, M.H., Chairman of Bamus Suku Betawi 1982;
alongside the Mampang Prapatan Subdistrict Head, leaders of Betawi community organizations, and local chapter heads of Bamus Suku Betawi 1982 from across Jakarta.
In his address, H. Marullah Matali emphasized that the establishment of Majelis Kaum Betawi represents a vital effort to preserve Betawi local wisdom amidst the city’s modernization and multicultural growth.
“Betawi was founded by the saints of God, and that is why this land must always be protected. The Betawi people are now everywhere; we have entered a period of diaspora. Betawi sons and daughters have become national figures leaders in government and religion. Betawi people are not confined to their hometown; they stand tall across the nation,” said Marullah.
He further stated that MKB must serve as a unifying platform for the Betawi community and a strategic partner to the Jakarta Provincial Government in preserving cultural, moral, and social values.
“Betawi culture must remain alive amid the waves of modernity. During the Extraordinary Congress held on October 18, 2025, the Betawi people came together with one shared commitment to unite in preserving and advancing Betawi cultural values,” he added.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. (Ret.) H. Narcrowi Ramli underscored the importance of MKB as a traditional institution that nurtures the younger Betawi generation to remain grounded in their cultural identity while being prepared to face global challenges.
“We want Betawi culture not only to be remembered, but to remain a living part of Jakarta’s society today and in the years to come,” he remarked.
The event also served as a momentum to strengthen collaboration among traditional leaders, community organizations, and government institutions. Through this synergy, participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to safeguard and develop Betawi culture as a proud regional identity.
As a form of concrete support, the Jakarta Provincial Government continues to promote Betawi cultural preservation and development through policies, programs, and cross-sector cooperation. This commitment is reflected in the facilitation of cultural activities, community empowerment, and the strengthening of Betawi cultural institutions as an integral part of a progressive, sustainable, and culturally rich Jakarta.
“The Jakarta Government remains committed to preserving the existence and noble values of Betawi culture as the root of the city’s identityensuring it remains alive, relevant, and passed on to future generations,” concluded Marullah.
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