Lebaran Betawi 2026: Fostering Culture in Jakarta as Global City

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Betawi People's Asembly (MKB), in collaboration with the Betawi Consultative Board (Bamus Betawi), has officially announced that the 2026 Lebaran Betawi, will take place from April 10–12, 2026. Departing from previous years, this grand gathering of the Betawi community will be centered at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta, following the directives of the Governor of Jakarta, Pramono Anung.

In a press statement received by RRI VOI on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, the General Chairman of Bamus Betawi, H. Riano P. Ahmad, stated that this year’s event holds special significance. In addition to entering its 18th year, Lebaran Betawi 2026 is part of the momentum leading toward Jakarta's five-century milestone. It also marks the first time the event is held under the auspices of the MKB as a customary institution, following the enactment of the Jakarta Special Region (DKJ) Law Number 2 of 2024.

“This is a form of constitutional adaptation. Lebaran Betawi 2026 carries a mission to foster unity and preserve traditions amidst Jakarta’s transformation into a global city,” Riano said, emphasizing the importance of this event for the Betawi indigenous community.

The history of Lebaran Betawi began with the initiation of the late Amarullah Asbah, with the support of then-Governor Fauzi Bowo and Mayor Sylviana Murni, and has been officially organized by Bamus Betawi since 2008. This tradition continues to evolve as a symbol of cultural synergy between the Betawi people and the Jakarta Provincial Government as it enters its 18th year of implementation.

Under the leadership of Fauzi Bowo at MKB and with the support of Governor Pramono Anung, the event serves not only as a halalbihalal (post-Eid gathering) but also as a space for exploring the spiritual, social, and cultural values of the Betawi people. The Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Anas Ma’ruf, ensured that preparations have been carried out through cross-departmental coordination, including the Department of Parks and City Forests and the Jakarta Cultural Office.

“Signature traditions such as anteran (gift-giving), Betawi culinary offerings, and cultural art performances will remain the main highlights, involving participation from all administrative areas of the city,” Anas said, explaining the concept to be presented at Lapangan Banteng.

Moreover, Anas invited all elements of Jakarta's society to attend and participate in the festivities. “Lebaran Betawi is the primary stage for Jakarta’s identity, rich in spiritual, social, and cultural values. We invite all parties to attend and collaborate in making this event a success,” he said.