15 Pairs Advance to Final in West Jakarta's Abang None Search for Tourism and Cultural Ambassadors

Fifteen pairs of finalists are vying for the title of Abang None Jakarta Barat 2026, aiming to become the region's tourism and cultural ambassadors. The Grand Ballroom of Hotel Pullman Jakarta Central Park hosted the final round of the selection process on Friday night.

Sherly Yuliana, head of the West Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Sub-agency, stated that the seven winning pairs will represent Jakarta Barat in provincial-level promotional programs. "They will become Tourism and Cultural Ambassadors, representing West Jakarta in various tourism promotion and cultural preservation programs at the provincial level," Sherly told ANTARA.

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So, later they will become Tourism and Cultural Ambassadors, representing West Jakarta in various tourism promotion and cultural preservation programs at the provincial level

Themed 'Nadi Jakarta Barat: Global & Berbudaya' (Pulse of West Jakarta: Global & Cultural), the event's concept is inspired by the historical significance of areas like Pecinan Glodok, Kota Tua, and Kali Besar. These locations have long served as meeting points for Chinese, Arab, European, and Nusantara cultures since the 17th century, symbolizing Jakarta's identity as a global and cultural city.

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That is the point that becomes a symbol of the birth of Jakarta's identity as a global city that remains cultural

This theme aligns with Jakarta's celebration of five centuries as a global and cultural metropolis. The finalists showcased this through a Nandak choreography performance. Sherly emphasized that the Abang None selection is more than a competition; it's a platform for young people to develop their talents, strengthen their love for West Jakarta and DKI Jakarta's culture and tourism, and ultimately contribute to the provincial government's programs.

The agency hopes the event will produce development ambassadors who enhance West Jakarta's image as a desirable destination, thereby increasing both domestic and international tourist visits. The selection process involved 250 initial applicants, narrowed down to 30 finalists after a selection on June 6-7, 2026. These finalists underwent intensive training from June 8 to July 17, covering governance, tourism, Betawi culture, and public communication, including a fashion show featuring Batik Gobang, a distinctive West Jakarta batik.

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Ultimately, it will also increase tourist visits, both domestic and foreign tourists