Betawi Cultural Institution Rebrands, Foke Appointed Head

The Majelis Kaum Betawi (MKB) convened an Extraordinary Congress (KLB) in Central Jakarta, focusing on a significant institutional rebranding: changing its name to Lembaga Adat Kebudayaan Betawi (LAKB). A key outcome of the congress was the confirmation of H. Fauzi Bowo, widely known as Foke, as the Chairman of the Customary Council. Foke was also honored with the title Datuk Mua'allim Ahlul Adat for his contributions to strengthening Betawi customs and culture.

Fauzi Bowo explained that the name change transcends mere nomenclature; it represents an institutional adjustment to evolving regulations and a strategic move to establish a cohesive platform for the Betawi community. He referenced Article 31 of Law Number 2 of 2024 concerning the Special Capital Region of Jakarta (DKJ), which mentions the Betawi Customary and Cultural Institution. Bowo emphasized that this restructuring must be rooted in a spirit of unity, aiming to consolidate various Betawi organizations and communities under a single customary umbrella.

The KLB also produced several strategic recommendations. These include the official adoption of the LAKB name and the establishment of foundational principles for the institution. Furthermore, the congress recommended that the Governor of DKI Jakarta formally inaugurate Fauzi Bowo as the Chairman of the Customary Council and recognize LAKB as the parent customary institution for the Betawi people. Another recommendation urges the Regional Government to amend Regional Regulation Number 4 of 2014 on the Preservation of Betawi Culture into a regulation promoting Betawi Culture, with a target completion date of 2027.

MKB KLB Executive Chairman M Ichwan Ridwan stated that these recommendations aim to enhance the status of Betawi customs and culture, shifting the focus from mere preservation to active promotion through development, utilization, protection, and community engagement. Ridwan highlighted that the KLB is part of a broader consolidation process for the Betawi community, which began with the declaration of the Majelis Amanah Persatuan Kaum Betawi (MAPKB) in December 2022, uniting two major Betawi organizations. This consolidation continued through pre-congress and inaugural congresses, leading to the evolution of MAPKB into the Majelis Kaum Betawi.