Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta marks its 62nd anniversary with cultural programmes

Indonesia’s first five-star hotel, the legendary Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta, celebrated its 62nd anniversary through various cultural programmes, from an ongoing Mustikarasa-inspired culinary promo to a kebaya exhibition.

The hotel, designed by American architect Abel Sorensen, was inaugurated by Indonesia’s first president Soekarno in 1962 to accommodate the guests of the fourth Asian Games. From the beginning, the hotel has sought to represent “the face of Indonesia”, showcasing the country’s culture to guests from all over the world. Take a look at the hotel’s anniversary celebration programmes below. 

Spotlight on East Javanese foods

The hotel is highlighting East Javanese foods in its regular Mustikarasa culinary programme to mark its anniversary. This programme, held at the hotel’s Signatures restaurant seeks to highlight authentic Indonesian flavours from different regions, following the recipes in Mustikarasa cookbook. The hotel features classic East Javanese cuisine with a contemporary twist until December 2024, in order to pay tribute to President Soekarno’s hometown.

On 27 August during the exclusive anniversary celebration at Bali Room, guests were spoiled with a four-course East Javanese set menu dinner. It featured Gado Gado Surabaya (steamed vegetable salad with peanut sauce) as its appetiser, Soto Branggahan soup (coconut-infused chicken soup, boiled spring chicken, vermicelli and bean sprouts), Daging Sapi Bumbu Rawon (beef tenderloin served in black broth), Nasi Jagung (steamed corn rice) and Stir-Fried Broccolini.

The sweet dessert Wingko Babat (coconut pancake served with mango, passionfruit and coconut gelato) concluded the East Javanese culinary experience.

A night of exciting arts shows

The anniversary celebration was enlivened by a number of arts programmes, cementing the hotel’s reputation as an Indonesian cultural icon. The programmes included a theatrical performance from Indonesian actress Happy Salma, as well as music from Jakarta Concert Orchestra and Batavia Madrigal Singers, led by Avip Priatna. 

Latest breakthroughs in Indonesian kebaya by Didiet Maulana

As part of its anniversary celebration programme, the hotel is also showcasing the artisanal creation of Indonesian kebaya designer Didiet Maulana in the grand lobby. Kebaya Kala Kini (Contemporary Kebaya) showcase highlights the works of Maulana, who is also the creative director of Svarna by IKAT Indonesia. The showcase, supported by the Bakti Budaya Djarum Foundation, will last until 11 September.

“To celebrate our 62 years anniversary, we strive to create a series of curated experiences that honour the legacy of Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta,” said the hotel’s general manager Harald Fitzek. “This celebration is about history, national pride, and cultural heritage. More than just a hotel, we aim to be a cultural hub that bridges the past and present, ensuring that the essence of Indonesia continues to thrive. We are honoured to share this milestone with those who have been part of our journey,” he added.

Visit the hotel’s website for more information.