RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The plan to compile "500 stories of Betawi and Jakarta" can be materialized if all sides are fully involved with a spirit of collaboration and togetherness. An Advisory Board of the Jakarta Community Association of Mohammad Husni Thamrin (Permata MHT), Ibnu Chuldun, delivered the statement to media on the sidelines of the Breaking the fast of Betawi Journalists Forum (FJB) at Saung Roesdiah, Kebayoran Lama, South Jakarta on Friday, March 13, 2026.

According to him, the idea to compile around "500 stories of Betawi and Jakarta" is expected to inspire the younger generation in understanding Betawi identity and cultural values. The creation of these stories coincides with Jakarta's 500th anniversary in 2027, as it becomes a global city.

Ibnu Chuldun, who also serves as the Human Resources Assessor for the Main Expert Apparatus of the Ministry of Law, Human Rights and Immigration and Corrections, believes the Betawi Journalists Forum (FJB) plays a strategic role in uniting the ideas of prominent figures to preserve and develop Betawi cultural heritage.

In addition, he conveyed, the forum can be a conducive platform for the Betawi community to formulate and package various Betawi stories, so they remain alive and can be passed down to future generations.

"As part of the Betawi community, I'm very proud. Why? Because the Betawi Journalists Forum can unite our vision to compile and develop how Betawi stories are packaged in a conducive atmosphere. This will certainly inspire the next generation of Betawi youth," Ibnu Chuldun stated.

Moreover, he mentioned that collecting various Betawi stories is not only an effort to document culture, but also a means to foster inter-generational ties within the Betawi community. He underscored the importance of continuity between senior figures with experience and cultural knowledge and the younger generation who will continue the preservation efforts.

"To ensure the stories don't die out from the elders, seniors to young generation, i Honestly said this must continue to be connected. This is a tough job, so it requires a spirit of complete cooperation," he said.

Ibnu believes this can be achieved with enthusiasm and collaborative development. He conveyed that these "500 stories of Betawi and Jakarta" will certainly be inspiration for the younger generation of Betawi when they see their seniors and elders unite.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of FJB, M. Syakur Usman, during breaking the fast event, said that the “500 Stories of Betawi and Jakarta” program was initiated as a form of contribution from the Betawi community to the historic moment.

According to him, the Betawi community does not want to merely be spectators in the celebration of Jakarta’s five centuries. “The 500 Stories of Betawi and Jakarta” program was initiated as an effort by Betawi youths to contribute to the celebration of Jakarta’s 500th anniversary. Betawi people do not only want to be spectators,” Syakur said in his remarks.

He encouraged Betawi residents to write stories about their respective hometowns, including personal experiences of witnessing environmental changes amid the city’s development.

“This book is expected to become a foundation for Jakarta’s future development, as well as a vocal point representing the aspirations of the Betawi community as the indigenous people of Jakarta regarding the development of their city in the future,” he said.

Moreover, FJB also invites various stakeholders in Jakarta to support the program, ranging from Betawi figures, scholars, journalists, to the regional government, particularly the Jakarta Provincial Communication, Informatics, and Statistics Agency.