Get Ready for the Fun! Rawa Belong Milkfish (Bandeng) Festival Returns for Chinese New Year

SEAToday.com, Jakarta – Mark your calendars! To welcome the Chinese New Year and commemorate Jakarta’s 500th anniversary, the Jakarta Provincial Government is bringing you the Rawa Belong Milkfish (Bandeng) Festival on January 27-28, 2025. The festival will take place on Jalan Sulaiman, Sukabumi Utara, Rawa Belong, West Jakarta, and promises an exciting blend of Betawi culture and delicious treats.

According to Andhika Permata, Head of the Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Agency (Disparekraf), this festival is more than just food—it’s a celebration of diversity, tradition, and the local potential of West Jakarta.

“This festival is not just about eating milkfish; it’s about embracing pluralism, preserving traditions, and showcasing our rich cultural heritage,” Andhika said in a statement on Saturday.

Visitors can expect a feast for the senses, featuring a variety of traditional Betawi performances such as the fascinating milkfish deboning demo, energetic Betawi dances, and lively gambang kromong and palang pintu music performances by the legendary Si Pitung Rawa Belong Troupe, led by H. Bahtiar.

Of course, no festival is complete without amazing food! A mouthwatering selection of Betawi dishes made from fresh milkfish will be available to satisfy your cravings.

Adding to the excitement, a colorful horse-drawn carriage parade will feature notable Jakarta figures, including Acting Jakarta Governor Teguh Setyabudi, Jakarta Regional Secretary Marrullah Matali, Jakarta's newly elected Governor Pramono Anung, Vice Governor Rano Karno, and former Governor Fauzi Bowo (2007-2012).

H. Naman, the subdistrict head of Kebon Jeruk, emphasized that the festival is a true collaboration between the community and the government, aiming to shine a spotlight on local talent and culture.

“This is a golden opportunity to showcase Jakarta’s rich history and cultural diversity, while also highlighting Rawa Belong’s tourism appeal,” he said.

The event is also supported by the Jakarta Community Organization Permata MHT (Mohamad Husni Thamrin), ensuring the festival is packed with excitement and local pride.

With all the fun and festivities in store, the Rawa Belong Milkfish Festival is set to be a memorable event, bringing people together and keeping Betawi traditions alive in the heart of modern Jakarta. Don’t miss it!

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