2026 Bedug Festival in South Jakarta Becomes Ramadan Tourist Attraction

The sound of the bedug drum echoed across the courtyard of the South Jakarta Mayor's Office, creating a rhythm that was more than just an iftar time marker—it was the living pulse of culture. The 2026 Bedug Festival became a convergence point for tradition, creativity, and Ramadan spirit, simultaneously serving as a tourist attraction for the capital's residents.

Organized by the South Jakarta Cultural Sub-Department, this festival featured 10 teams showcasing cultural traditions through a bedug drumming art competition. 

Amid the solemn Ramadan atmosphere, the booming bedug became a magnet drawing residents to gather, witness, and celebrate Betawi Cultural Heritage.

"This festival is a crucial moment in preserving community cultural traditions," stated South Jakarta Deputy Mayor Ali Murthadho during the 2026 Bedug Festival at the South Jakarta Mayor's Office courtyard on Tuesday.

He emphasized that the event aligned with DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung's directive to develop Ramadan Tourism attractions. 

This tradition, usually confined to mosques and prayer halls, now unfolded in an open festival format, offering a broader Cultural Experience.

Ramadan Tourism Rooted in Tradition

Ali stressed the festival wasn't merely entertainment but also a platform for youth development to prevent negative behaviors like street brawls.

He hoped the Bedug Festival concept could expand beyond village, district, city, and provincial levels to reach neighborhood communities.

"May this festival become part of Ramadan outreach and bring blessings to us all," Ali expressed.

Preserving Betawi Cultural Identity

Head of South Jakarta Cultural Sub-Department Encu Suhani explained the 2026 festival served as a stage for bedug art enthusiasts to actualize their talents and creativity.

This initiative also aimed to preserve cultural arts—especially bedug drumming traditions—while nurturing artists' skills and fostering healthy competition and collaboration among participants.

"Each district sent one team, totaling 10 teams. Judging criteria covered fundamental bedug patterns, vocal techniques, Arabic pronunciation (makharijul huruf), creativity, and overall performance," detailed Encu.

First, second, and third-place winners at this city-level festival will represent South Jakarta at the DKI Jakarta provincial competition in March 2026.

City-level champions will receive appreciation certificates, trophies, and coaching funds: Rp12,500,000 for first place, Rp10,000,000 for second, and Rp8,500,000 for third.

Subsequently, first runner-up gets Rp7,500,000 and second runner-up receives Rp6,500,000 in coaching funds.