KBRN, Jakarta: In celebration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, the Betawi Cultural Village at Setu Babakan in South Jakarta is spotlighting traditional Betawi cuisine through a special exhibition titled Dandang Berdendang (“The Singing Steamer”).

Part of the broader Gebyar Seni Budaya Setu Babakan festivities, translated as the Setu Babakan Cultural Arts Festival, the culinary showcase aims to educate visitors about the rich food heritage of the Betawi people.

According to Farah Aini Astuti, Head of Education and Information at the Setu Babakan Cultural Unit, the event is designed to preserve and promote Betawi culinary traditions.

“Dandang Berdendang is more than just a food exhibition. It’s a cultural narrative. Betawi cuisine reflects the daily life and history of its people,” Farah said on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Setu Babakan, as reported by antaranews.com.

The exhibition, scheduled for Saturday, August 16, invites the public to explore iconic dishes such as kerak telor, a savory omelet made from glutinous rice, duck or chicken egg, dried shrimp (ebi), and toasted coconut, traditionally cooked over charcoal to achieve a crispy crust.

Farah emphasized that the event serves as a platform for cultural education, especially for younger generations. “We want children to not only learn about Betawi culture but to enjoy it. When they appreciate it, they’ll carry it forward,” she said.

The culinary showcase is part of a week-long celebration that began on Tuesday, August 12, with traditional games competitions involving junior and senior high school students.

The festivities will culminate in a theatrical performance titled Singa Betawi (“The Betawi Lion”), which dramatizes the life of Haji Nur Ali, a revered Betawi hero and Islamic scholar.

Born in Bekasi in 1914, Haji Nur Ali was a charismatic leader and freedom fighter who played a pivotal role in resisting colonial forces during Indonesia’s struggle for independence.

Known for his fierce resistance and spiritual leadership, he earned the nickname “The Lion of Karawang-Bekasi” and was officially recognized as a National Hero in 2006.

“Singa Betawi blends traditional music with dynamic movement and will close this year’s cultural celebration,” Farah noted.

Winners of the traditional games will receive their awards during the final night, with prizes expected to be presented by the Head of Jakarta’s Cultural Agency.

Through Dandang Berdendang, Setu Babakan continues its mission to preserve Betawi culinary heritage, ensuring that the flavors of the past remain a vibrant part of Jakarta’s cultural future. ***