JAKARTA, JAKTIMES.COM – Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anis Matta, received a delegation from the Betawi Consultative Council (Badan Musyawarah Betawi/Bamus Betawi), led by its chairman Muhammad Rifki, widely known as Bang Eki Pitung, on Tuesday (December 16, 2025).
The meeting discussed potential collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Bamus Betawi to promote and preserve Betawi traditions and cultural heritage, both nationally and internationally.
One of the key ideas explored during the discussion was the development of a “Betawi Day” program, envisioned as a platform to introduce Betawi culture to a global audience. The initiative would showcase various aspects of Betawi heritage, including traditional arts, customs, and local wisdom.
“It was an honor to receive Bang Eki Pitung and the Bamus Betawi delegation. We discussed opportunities for collaboration to promote and preserve Betawi culture,” Anis Matta wrote on his official Facebook account.
Anis Matta emphasized that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is open to working with community organizations as part of Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy efforts. According to him, local culture represents a valuable asset in strengthening Indonesia’s image on the international stage.
“God willing, going forward we will work together to introduce the richness of Betawi culture to the global community,” he added.
The planned collaboration between the Ministry and Bamus Betawi is expected to serve as a concrete step in safeguarding Betawi cultural identity amid Jakarta’s rapid modernization, while also expanding its global outreach through diplomatic channels.
This initiative aligns with Indonesia’s broader cultural diplomacy strategy, which positions regional traditions as a form of soft power to foster mutual understanding and strengthen international relations (Wan)