A warm spirit of friendship and cultural pride filled the gathering as ASJB Bekasi Regional Chapter hosted a Silaturahmi and Photo Session in celebration of Indonesia’s National Kebaya Day on Monday, July 20, 2026. Held at the residence of Bekasi Regional Chairperson Rita Nikmahwati, the event became a beautiful reminder that preserving culture can begin with simple moments shared together.
Members and committee officials of ASJB Bekasi attended the event, joined by ASJB Secretary General Teguh Ruswono and Head of Membership Darma Azwan, whose presence reflected the organization’s support for cultural and community-based initiatives.
The atmosphere was vibrant as participants arrived wearing elegant kebaya and traditional wastra fabrics, while the gentlemen proudly dressed in batik. More than a dress code, the traditional attire represented a shared appreciation for Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.
According to Rita Nikmahwati, the gathering was designed not only as a social event but also as an invitation to embrace and preserve one of Indonesia’s most iconic cultural symbols.
“Through this photo session, we would like to encourage everyone to love and appreciate the kebaya. It is not merely a piece of fabric; it represents the elegance of Indonesian women and serves as a symbol of our national identity that deserves to be preserved for future generations,” Rita said.
She also shared that ASJB Bekasi has prepared a full calendar of activities through the end of the year, offering members various opportunities to strengthen friendships, collaborate, and participate in meaningful community programs.
One of the most memorable highlights came between the photo sessions, when participants were invited to play the traditional angklung together. Guided by Dian Rose, an angklung instructor from Sanggar Matahari, everyone enthusiastically performed the melody of Can’t Help Falling in Love.
For many participants, it was their first experience playing the bamboo instrument. Yet, under Dian Rose’s guidance, individual notes blended into a beautiful harmony, filling the venue with smiles, laughter, and applause. The performance became a touching reminder that, just like an angklung ensemble, harmony is created when everyone contributes together.
The event demonstrated that preserving culture does not always require grand ceremonies. Wearing a kebaya, sharing stories, making music together, and celebrating friendship are meaningful ways to keep Indonesia’s traditions alive.
Through this gathering, ASJB Bekasi once again reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening friendship while promoting Indonesia’s cultural heritage. Every kebaya worn, every angklung played, and every smile captured in the photographs reflected a shared commitment to preserving the nation’s identity for generations to come.
