Betawi

Betawi is an Indonesian ethnic group native to Jakarta. They trace their origins to the populations that inhabited or passed through the Batavia area from the 17th century onward, formed by Malay-speaking maritime traders and local Sundanese and Javanese communities, along with Chinese, Arab, Indian merchants, and later European settlers. Through centuries of urban life in the capital, Betawi culture emerged as a distinct, cosmopolitan urban identity.

Language and identity: The Betawi language is a Malay-based creole that reflects the group’s mixed origins and urban setting. It coexists with Indonesian and the regional languages of central and western Java and Sumatra. Betawi identity is closely tied to the history of Jakarta and the city’s diverse, layered population.

Culture: Betawi cultural expressions include traditional arts such as Lenong theater and the large puppets known as ondel-ondel, as well as Gambang Kromong musical ensembles. The cuisine is a notable aspect, with dishes such as kerak telor, soto Betawi, nasi uduk, and ketupat sayur playing a central role in community life and celebrations.

Religion and society: Betawi are predominantly Muslim, with communities of Christians, Buddhists, and Hindus present among the urban population. Religious and secular celebrations in Jakarta often incorporate Betawi customs and performances.

Today, Betawi culture continues to evolve amid Jakarta’s rapid modernization and national cultural development. Debates about Betawi authenticity, language preservation, and the transmission of traditional arts reflect the community’s ongoing adaptation within a multiethnic capital.