NOW! Jakarta

25/01/2025

🌱 "It takes a village" isn’t just about raising a child – it’s about creating real change

Here is how a ‘farm-to-closet’ philosophy changed fashion’s relationship with nature, culture and community saw firsthand how women in Indonesia’s fabric industry were trapped in poverty.

The modern fashion industry is fast-paced: trends shift rapidly from one season to the next, the shelf lives of apparel moving as quickly as the industrial looms that work to keep the entire fashion machine revolving year after year.

But the costs of this keeping-up-with-the-Joneses approach are finally catching on.

In Indonesia, many fabric makers remain blissfully unaware of the damage their synthetic dyes cause to rivers, soil health and ultimately the communities connected to them.

Denica Riadini-Flesch saw these problems firsthand while working as a development economist for an international NGO.

She witnessed how the women in Indonesia’s fabric industry were struggling to make ends meet, stuck in a cycle of poverty —true for 98% of women in the industry, she notes.

Seeing how fashion had such a direct impact on the individuals and lives of people became a lightbulb moment for Denica, prompting her to take matters into her own hands.

💡 Her solution? A sustainable model that uplifts communities while protecting the planet.

Discover how ethical fashion is transforming lives, one thread at a time. 🧵💚

If you're interested in the full story, you can read it here: https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/sukkhacitta-securing-the-roots-of-fashion/

23/01/2025

📚 When one speaks of contemporary Indonesian literature, it is impossible not to mention Ayu Utami.

A journalist-turned-novelist, activist and the Literature Curator for Jakarta’s Salihara Art Centre, Ayu’s works have revolutionised the nation’s literature scene, especially for women.

🏆 Her first novel, Saman, published in 1998, was highly acclaimed by literary critics and broke boundaries, especially in the age of Reformation.

With accolades like the Prince Claus Award (2000) and the Ahmad Barkie Award (2018), Ayu remains steadfast in her commitment to elevate the nation’s cultural discourse.

This time, she sat down with NOW! Jakarta to share her insights about what can be done to raise Jakarta’s cultural profile.

Read the full article here: https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/why-jakarta-needs-art-communities-with-ayu-utami-of-salihara-art-centre/

22/01/2025

🍾 Treat yourself and your loved ones to a relaxing long weekend escape at Fraser Place Setiabudi.

Enjoy a delightful stay packed with complimentary amenities, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities.

What you get:
• Daily Complimentary Breakfast
• Welcome Hampers (complimentary snacks)
• 10% Discount at Jardino Restaurant
• Access to Kids' Play and Activity Space (25th-27th January), featuring:
Kids DIY (Do It Yourself) Activities Package, Movie Corner, Play area, Other Fun Activities.
• Special Lion Dance Performance (29th January)
• Complimentary Car Park (one lot per apartment)
• Complimentary use of facilities

📅 Available for stays from 25-29 January 2025

Book now and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

For more details and to make a reservation, visit https://bit.ly/LWS-FPSJ.

*Subject to availability. T&Cs apply.

21/01/2025

🇮🇩🍴 Embark on a culinary adventure with Taste of Nusantara – a special Sunday lunch at HARRIS Hotel Kelapa Gading!

Delight in the diverse flavours of Indonesia, from savoury Bebek Betutu to fragrant Nasi Campur, alongside live cooking stations and a vibrant cultural ambience.

📅 Every Sunday | 🕛 12 PM – 3 PM
💰 IDR 258K nett/person
✨ Special discounts for ASR members & kids

Enjoy family-friendly activities and an unforgettable dining experience.

Reserve your table now: https://wa.me/6281213848731

20/01/2025

🌆 Developing a City of Culture: What happens when Jakarta loses its Capital status?

A truly ‘global city’ is not defined by a multicultural population or its bustling international financial sector, it is defined by its cultural experiences.

From Singapore to Tokyo, London to Barcelona, New York to Melbourne, these cities have vibrant contemporary art scenes and cultural institutions that are good enough to entice international visitors to fly in just for that reason.

Whether it’s an entertaining theatre show, an avant-garde art exhibition, or even an impressive public library, a global city is chock full of arts and culture.

When (or even, if…) Jakarta loses its status as Indonesia’s capital city, it should have something to fall back on.

An identity to stand on.

Yes, it is a historic city at nearly 497 years old, but that hardly captures the energy and soul of Jakarta.

This is not current enough. But we can build upon this history, on the old institutions, and develop Jakarta as a ‘City of Culture’.

Jakarta is yet to be considered a global city based on the standards mentioned above, but it certainly has many of the building blocks.

We now have a destination contemporary art museum, plus a thriving community of performers, artists, musicians and writers. These venues and communities need to be supported, promoted and at the very least visited.

In this special edition of NOW! Jakarta, we speak to leading figures in Jakarta’s different artistic and cultural institutions, share the stories of passionate communities and list out the many great destinations in Jakarta that make art, music, and theatre accessible to all.

Read the articles here: https://linktr.ee/nowjakartafeatures

16/01/2025

🍷 With seemingly endless choices for wine in the modern age, Ni Nyoman Kertawidyawati from JADDI Academy and Widya's World of Wines shares her research on Indonesia’s best-selling wine last year.

In a rush? Here’s the full list (in no particular order)

’s Brut Réserve

The 30-Mile Range by

, Haut-Médoc Bordeaux

Barrel Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Catalina by Santa Ema

Want to read the research in full detail?
Explore here:

The best-selling wines in Indonesia of 2024, a thriving year for the wine market, as conducted by Kertawidyawati, Certified Wine & Spirit Educator and Founder of Jaddi Academy.

15/01/2025

🏙️ Jakarta has added 2 new malls to its roster – The Agora Mall which opened in August 2024 and The Mall at Menara Jakarta which is slated to open later this June.

Despite already boasting dozens of malls, shopping centres, and complexes, Jakarta’s demand for shared commercial spaces continues to rise.

In a city where private transport remains the dominant way of getting around, these malls provide a convenient way of meeting up with friends, staying active, or getting some last-minute groceries for your week ahead.

Agora Mall opened in the Thamrin Nine Complex, boasting convenient access to hotels, residences, and two office towers.

The Mall at Menara Jakarta, on the other hand, will open in Kemayoran and aims to integrate modern living, business, and recreation into one destination.

We cover both malls in the articles below ⬇️
Agora: https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/agora-mall-jakartas-newest-urban-playground/
The Mall: https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/menara-jakarta-kemayorans-new-crown-jewel-opens-in-2025/

14/01/2025

🔍 It's not difficult to find breathtaking destinations in Indonesia.

From the serene shores of the far west to the majestic mountain landscapes of the east, one might easily wonder if God devoted extra attention to crafting this exotic archipelago.

Yet beauty alone does not suffice; the allure of Indonesia’s tourist destinations is often deepened by the tales that accompany them.

Nowhere is this harmony of narrative and landscape more evident than in Yogyakarta.

In November 2024, The Ambarrukmo Group invited NOW! Jakarta to experience their ‘Gateway of Java’ programme, designed to give guests a deeper understanding and appreciation of Javanese heritage, nature and community.

The programme uncovers hidden treasures —like the Seven Beaches of Kanigoro— weaving these experiences with refined stays at the Royal Ambarrukmo Hotel.

The Seven Beaches of Kanigoro is part of the group’s Ambarrukmo Agridaya initiative, whose objective is to unlock the region's untapped tourism potential.

This particular expedition led to Gunungkidul, a district home to secluded beaches largely untouched by mainstream tourism.

These seven beaches are dotted across the dramatic southern coastline of Java, running from the Special Region of Yogyakarta to the early borders of East Java.

Unlike the polished allure of Bali or Lombok, the ‘Kanigoro beaches’ offer a raw, untamed beauty.

Here, the cliffs stand tall and jagged, and the sand is rugged as it stretches wide, brushed by the sea’s roaring waves.

The untouched surrounding brings almost an ancient feeling —in essence, we are seeing the same sites our ancestors saw centuries ago.

For the in-depth story about our expedition to the seven beaches, read the full piece here: https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/the-seven-beaches-of-kanigoro-a-journey-through-yogyakartas-mystic-coastline/

Text by Dinda Mulia, Photos from Royal Ambarrukmo.

12/01/2025

🍞 In Betawi culture, this strange crocodile-shaped bread is a symbol of loyalty and everlasting love.

This is Roti Buaya.

In the traditional Betawi wedding ceremony, the prospective groom must bring roti buaya (crocodile-shaped bread) to the prospective bride as a symbol of everlasting love and marital fidelity.

So what's the story?

This bread is the culmination of Batavia’s topography and European culture.

💐 The Europeans who settled in Batavia (Jakarta) undoubtedly influenced the local culture, including how feelings of love and affection were expressed by giving flowers.

This European tradition was then adapted to Betawi culture: instead of giving flowers, they began offering a pair of “crocodiles” as a symbol of their feelings and commitment to their partners.

🐊 Betawi people’s cultural connection with crocodiles highlights how their environment and landscape of nature influenced their beliefs and values.

At that time, Jakarta was swampy and surrounded by 13 rivers, in which many crocodiles lived.

Living close to these rivers and swamps, and thus these crocodiles, local inhabitants took inspiration from their reptilian neighbours, in particular their monogamous relationships and protective nature.

As such, these characteristics were thus adopted into symbols of loyalty and devotion.

To learn about how they became bread and how they're used in modern ceremonies, read the full story here: https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/roti-buaya-a-symbol-of-loyalty/

10/01/2025

🏫 Global Jaya School is pleased to invite you to their next Open Day on February 1, 2025.

Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere of diverse student backgrounds and an environment grounded in Indonesian values.

This February, experience what it’s like to be a part of the Global Jaya School community and take your first step in joining their talented group of graduates.

📝 Families interested in joining can register here: https://www.globaljaya.com/openday

09/01/2025

❄️ Japanese winter is calling!

There's a certain magic in the quietude of snow-kissed slopes. A world of white, where the only sound is the soft crunch of powdery snow beneath your boots.

At Club Med’s ski resorts in Hokkaido, you can experience this serenity, and so much more.

From the slopes of Kiroro Peak to the tranquility of Sahoro, each resort offers a unique winter escape. Whether you're a seasoned skier, a novice snow lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Club Med has something for everyone.

Ready to discover your winter wonderland?
From the slopes of Kiroro Peak to the tranquillity of Sahoro, each resort offers a unique winter escape. Whether you're a seasoned skier, a novice snow lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Club Med has something for everyone.

08/01/2025

🚌 Join WCISJ for an engaging Open Day at their campus this weekend!

If you’re a new family, this is a great time for you and your children to discover
why Wellington College Independent School Jakarta, as the first British heritage school
in Indonesia, is the ideal choice for your child’s Early Years and Primary education
journey.

📍 Damai Indah Golf BSD
📆 11 & 18 January 2025

Limited to only 20 seats per time slot.
⚡️ Register here: https://wellingtoncollege.sch.id/openday-2024

07/01/2025

Happy New Year!

We’re starting the new year with our latest issue, which is themed City of Culture.

Few would label the (current) Indonesian capital as such, but in this edition uncover the city’s heart and soul, showcasing a thriving arts scene and destinations for cultural discovery.

Our feature begins with leaders of Jakarta’s prominent art institutions answering a key question: “What does Jakarta need to do to be recognised as a city of culture?”

Then we raise the curtains on one of Jakarta’s oldest theatre groups, Teater Keliling, before sharing a curated list of the city’s top art destinations, artistic communities and cultural venues.

You can find a physical copy of our magazine in a cafe, hotel, or restaurant near you – but if you’d like to have a copy in your hands, you can order via our website here: https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/order-form-now-magazines/

Prefer the FREE digital version? Download here: https://payhip.com/b/BHdx

31/12/2024

🔔 Final call for ’s New Year’s Celebration offer!

On tonight:
The Pirates Dinner with Live Music, Games, and Prizes!
6 - 10 P.M.

The Countdown Party
10 P.M. - 12 A.M.

🏷️ IDR 375,000 ++/person

Reserve your table or stay via WhatsApp: https://wa.link/hvk0iu

🕺🏻 Treasure the night and sail into 2025 with

29/12/2024

📚 With topics ranging from local crafts to contemporary art, Dinda Mulia shares her favourite stories from 2024.

Here's what she chose:

🌊 The Seven Beaches of Kanigoro: A Journey Through Yogyakarta’s Mystic Coastline

From the serene shores of the far west to the majestic mountain landscapes of the east, one might easily wonder if God devoted extra attention to crafting this exotic archipelago. Yet beauty alone does not suffice; the allure of Indonesia’s tourist destinations is often deepened by the tales that accompany them. This is Yogyakarta.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/the-seven-beaches-of-kanigoro-a-journey-through-yogyakartas-mystic-coastline/

🎭 Journey into the World of Wayang Sari

The beauty of art lies not just in its final form but in the journey of creation. It’s the process that peels back the layers of creativity revealing the artist we may not know even existed, especially for those who never intended to be one! Sari Koeswoyo with her wayang paintings proves that everyone can be an artist if they’re daring enough.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/journey-into-the-world-of-wayang-sari/

🕰️ Time, The Forgotten Ingredient

Most Indonesians are aware that tempeh is made through fermentation, but many are less familiar with the widespread use of this ancient method in other culinary traditions. Crafted With Time brings back the magic of fermentation, harnessing the power of time to create restaurant-grade flavour-makers that pack a punch.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/time-the-forgotten-ingredient/

🗣️ Preserving Linguistic Heritage: An Interview with H.E Padraig Francis, Ambassador of Ireland to Indonesia

“Tír gan teanga is tír gan anam”, a country without a language, is a country without a soul. Far beyond the assumption of a predominantly English-speaking Ireland, lies a deep-rooted connection to their native language. We delve into Ireland’s commitment to preserving the language through insights from Ireland’s Ambassador.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/preserving-linguistic-heritage-an-interview-with-h-e-padraig-francis-ambassador-of-ireland-to-indonesia/

🩰 Exploring the Rhythms of Defiance and Order in Lucy Guerin’s One Single Action

Australia-based Lucy Guerin Inc brought their latest work, One Single Action, to the Salihara International Performing Arts Festival (SIPFest) 2024 on 17 and 18 August 2024, at the Salihara Community Art Centre. This 45-minute performance, while concise in its runtime, left the audience with plenty to contemplate.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/exploring-the-rhythms-of-defiance-and-order-in-lucy-guerins-one-single-action/

🍾 PALAPA Nutmeg Liqueur, a Taste of Indonesia in a Bottle

In recent years, we have seen the rise of locally-produced alcohol in Indonesia. From craft gins to coffee liqueurs, creative minds have infused ingredients from the archipelago to create one-of-a-kind tipples, bridging the gap between nature and innovation. One example is PALAPA Nutmeg Liqueur, sourced from across Indonesia.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/palapa-nutmeg-liqueur-a-taste-of-indonesia-in-a-bottle/

27/12/2024

Happy Holidays!

In light of the year ending, we’re revisiting some of our feature stories and pieces.

This first batch of stories comes from Sari Widiati, one of our Feature writers in Jakarta.

From artisanal cheeses to underground discoveries, Sari Widiati shares her favourite articles from 2024.

Here's what she chose:

🧀 Mazaraat Cheese: A Story of an Indonesian Artisanal Cheese Producer

Founded by the visionary duo of Muhammad Najmi and Nieta Pricilia Puspitasari, Mazaraat is making waves in the world of cheese, impressing experts and chefs with its artisanal offerings. More than just a culinary triumph, Mazaraat’s story is one of love for cheese, passion, and a commitment to preserving Indonesia’s dairy ecosystem.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/mazaraat-cheese-a-story-of-indonesias-artisanal-cheese/

👗 Reviving Batik in Jakarta: Preserving The City’s Textile Artisans

Unlike Solo, Pekalongan, Yogyakarta, Cirebon or Lasem, Jakarta is not on the radar when we think of batik producing regions. At least, it’s no longer on the radar, as Jakarta was once one of the main hubs for batik-making, complete with its own motifs and styles. So, what happened?

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/reviving-batik-in-jakarta-preserving-the-citys-textile-artisans/

🏘️ Condet: A Surviving Betawi Village Amidst Changing Times

Exploring East Jakarta’s Condet will allow you to see the roots of some important history. Condet today is, like other parts of Jakarta, experiencing the erosion of its Betawi identity, while being dense and chaotic, congested, and sadly also prone to flooding. Today the remaining community tries to bring back the identity of their village.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/condet-a-surviving-betawi-village-amidst-changing-times/

🚇 The History Beneath Our Feet: Heritage Discoveries Under Kota Tua

Remnants of Jakarta’s colonial history have been hiding beneath the surface of the megacity we know today. Dutch infrastructure and historic artefacts from 300 years ago have been rediscovered during the MRT Jakarta expansion project – a buried past, long built upon and paved over, now uncovered.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/the-history-beneath-our-feet/

🥣 Bubur Ase: A Special Betawi Porridge

At the beginning of the 20th century, bubur ase was a popular food among Batavia residents and was a mainstay for Betawi society. A bowl of this special rice porridge warmed stomachs and provided a day’s sustenance. Sadly, this unique Betawi dish is now seldom seen and served but some local vendors have kept this historical dish alive.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/bubur-ase-a-special-betawi-porridge/

🕌 Pekojan: Jakarta’s Historic Arab Village

Pekojan is a historic district or kecamatan in West Jakarta. Considered the city’s original Arab village, it is a prime example of the rich ethnic diversity found in Jakarta and how different communities created their own landmarks and cultural treasures over time.

🔗 https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/pekojan-jakartas-historic-arab-village/

24/12/2024

🎄✨ Celebrate the holiday season at The Gaia Hotel Bandung!

From magical choir performances to indulgent feasts, The Gaia Hotel Bandung is making this festive season unforgettable. 🎅🍴🎶

Discover the full lineup of events, menus, and special packages designed to bring joy to you and your loved ones.

👉 Read our full article for all the details:

The Gaia Hotel Bandung offers a list of fun activities, mesmerising concerts and scrumptious dining experiences for this festive season.

24/12/2024

✨ It's the festive season at Harris Puri Mansion!

Enjoy year-end stay packages, Christmas Dinner & Brunch, a special Kids Menu, and a New Year’s Eve stay to remember.

Make this holiday season unforgettable with Harris Suites Puri Mansion! 🎄🎉

More details here: https://www.nowjakarta.co.id/stay-at-harris-puri-mansion-for-the-year-end-holiday/