Rector: Betawi Culture Must be Preserved

Syahida Inn, UIN News Online – It is hoped that Betawi traditions and culture can continue to be preserved as part of Indonesia's cultural wealth. UIN Jakarta itself is committed to participating in preserving Betawi culture as a cultural entity that is close to the campus environment.

This was said by Rector of UIN Jakarta Amany Lubis in her speech at Dr. H. Syamsul Yakin MA book launch event entitled Milir in Ciputat, Tuesday (03/21/2022). The book launch was carried out by the Center for Betawi Studies (PSB) of UIN Jakarta with the support of religious leaders, and the Betawi Entrepreneurs Association (Apebe).

Rector Amany, who is married to Husni Kamal, a descendant of Betawi Mampang, said that her contact with Betawi people and culture gave her insight into the rich and distinctive nature of this ethnic culture. One of them, she said, is that the Betawi people tend to be quite open and nurturing.

According to Amany, this is in accordance with the area of residence and culture of the Betawi people who have been chosen to be the nation's capital. As the nation's capital, the Jakarta area allows people from various cultural backgrounds to come and live among the Betawi people.

One form of campus attention to Betawi culture, she continued, was the existence of PSB UIN Jakarta. This center is expected to be an extension of UIN Jakarta's effort in preserving Betawi culture.

In response, Chair of PSB UIN Jakarta Ahmad Yani appreciated the support of UIN Jakarta and many parties in preserving Betawi culture. “PSB was born from the strong intention of academics to contribute to the virtues, arts, culture and religion. In the future, apart from book review, we also hope to hold seminars, even research and surveys,” he said.

Meanwhile, the book 'Milir' which was launched at the event, was written by Syamsul in the form of a story about his life journey, who was born and grew up in a Betawi family and Betawi community. The word 'Milir' which is the title of the book is Syamsul's key word in describing the activities of the Betawi people to go to the city with the aim of trading.

Also present in the event, Vice Professor of General Administration Ahmad Rodoni, Professor of UIN Jakarta Murodi, Head of Center for Community Service (PPM)  Kamarusdiana, and a number of Apebe members. (rk/zm/mf/usa)