By. Lawrence T
Hotels, shopping centers, hangouts, street food, and historical moments take place in this area.
Jakarta, the capital city, holds many stories for many people. As a child born and raised in Jakarta, this big city is like a roof over my head. But did you know that not many people tell stories about an area in Jakarta that, even after decades, remains fascinating and memorable to visit. Many changes have occurred in this area, while some areas around remain largely unchanged.
Menteng, Central Jakarta
Yes, I mean it’s Menteng. Menteng is an area in central Jakarta known for its elite neighborhoods and historic residences. This area was developed in the 1910s by the Dutch colonial government with the garden city concept. It is also known as a business center, government office, city park, and colonial buildings. The areas it encompasses are known as Menteng, Cikini, Gondangdia, Pegangsaan, and Kebon Sirih. Each of these areas has its own historical memories and characteristics.
Business and Government Center
The Menteng area and surroundings are also known as a center of government and businesses. These include the State Palace of the Republic of Indonesia and the National Museum near the National Monument (Monas). Furthermore, there is Bank Indonesia (Central Bank) building, ministry offices, and embassies of several countries. The Menteng area also boasts a business district that has become the landmark of Jakarta with skyscrapers neatly lined up along Jalan MH. Thamrin and Jl. Sudirman.
Bitter and Sweet Stories
The Menteng area holds a wealth of bitter and sweet stories for many people, especially Jakarta residents. The bitter ones may stem from tragic events or political upheavals. These include the kidnapping of Army generals during the 1965 G30S-PKI (some of the houses where incidents happened are in Menteng area), the Thamrin-Sarinah bombings in January 2016, and the frequent demonstrations around the State Palace and National Monument horse statue.
This area was also the former residence and the childhood of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama. Obama lived with his mother, Ann, and attended elementary school in the Menteng area, SDN Menteng 01 Jl. Besuki, Central Jakarta. During his visit to Indonesia as US President in November 2010, Obama reminisced about his childhood in the area when enjoy playing and local foods like satay and fried rice.
This area is also known for many legendary entertainment venues that have left deep, fond memories for generations of Jakartans. The places like National Monument (Monas), Megaria Cinema, Sarinah shopping center, street food on Jl. Agus Salim-Sabang, and Taman Ismail Marzuki in the Cikini area are truly legendary. Even foreign travelers who have visited and settled in Jakarta might be familiar with street of Jl. Jaksa, which offers affordable tourist homestays.
Things That Have Changed and Remain
Some things have changed in this area, and some things remain as they were. However, all of this doesn’t diminish the uniqueness and distinctive character of Jakarta. It can suddenly find a moment of calm amidst the 24-hours bustle. What does it mean? Well, Jakartans are accustomed to the spontaneous events. During the Eid al-Fitr holiday season, Jakarta, especially the Menteng area, which is usually bustling 24/7, can transform into a seemingly deserted area as many residents travel back to their hometowns. However, it can suddenly become much busier than usual due to something that has happened. This is due to the nature of residents who want to witness and experience it firsthand, and “Fear of missing out”. It’s truly interesting 😊
One thing that caught my attention regarding something that has changed is the completion renovate the Sarinah shopping center on Jl. MH Thamrin. The Sarinah shopping mall as Indonesia’s oldest, was built in 1966. It bears witness to Jakarta and citizen journey toward a colorful and modernized lifestyle.
Meanwhile, the Jalan Raya Cikini area and the antique market on Jalan Surabaya remain largely unchanged, despite some changes. A stroll along this stretch of road still recalls the atmosphere of the 1980s and 1990s. The straight streets, lined with shady trees, remain unchanged. Iconic landmarks remain in this area, such as the old Post Office, the legendary Tan Ek Tjoan bakery, Taman Ismail Marzuki, the Junior High School Cikini, and the rows of antique shops along Jalan Surabaya.
Where to Stay
Many of the best hotels and inns are available in Menteng area. You’ll certainly have your own preferences. We’ve tried to give you options that are closest to busy areas and nearby tourist attractions. These include Morrissey Hotel on Jl. KH. Wahid Hasyim, the Mercure, and Double Tree Hotels in the Cikini. The Six Degrees for backpackers, also in Cikini. There are also legendary homestays and budget inns around Jl. Jaksa, Menteng.
Best Things to Do
Nightlife and culinary delights on Jl. Agus Salim, Sabang, offers simple Jakarta-style street food like fried rice and satay. You can also consider restaurants offering Padang cuisine and fast food. There are also many cafes with live music serving traditional, Western, and Oriental cuisine. All of them served at Jl. Agus Salim-Sabang. Meanwhile, the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout is a great photo spot for the beauty of Jakarta at night, or visiting the National Monument and National Museum on Jl. Merdeka Barat is an option. Maybe for the other best experience by visiting Obama’s school at Jl. Besuki, Menteng.
Welcome to visit!
