VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia which has different tribes, cultures and traditions. One of the Indonesian tribes is Betawi. One of the Betawi’s traditions is Palang Pintu or Cross Bar. 

Palang Pintu tradition becomes an identity of Betawi people in Jakarta. The tradition has become part of wedding procession since long time ago. The tradition is combination between Silat, martial art and limerick which dominate the tradition. 

Until now, the tradition is still implemented by Betawi people, which is still strong in Islamic teachings. The tradition aims to test the seriousness of man to woman who will get married. To pass the test in Palang Pintu tradition’s test, there are two prerequisites which must be fulfilled, namely to win the martial arts and to fluently read the Koran.

Palang Pintu tradition was inherited from generation to generation and there is no historical note which explains about when and who created the tradition. The tradition is usually implemented when bridegroom arriving at the bride’s place.  

The tradition has some steps namely, Shalawat Dustur, requited rhyme, Beklai, and Lantun Sike. During the tradition implemented, the bridegroom will be blocked by Silat fighters or Jawara from the bride’s village. 

Then, one of the Silat fighters requests some requisitions. The point is to challenge fighting and reading Koran. Therefore, the bridegroom can be ensured having quality or not, according to them. 

Implementing Palang Pintu tradition needs 9 persons; 2 persons are Silat fighters from the bride side, 1 person from the bridegroom, I person as poem interpreter from each side, 3 persons as readers of Shalawat Dustur, and 1 person as Sike’s reader.  

Today, the tradition is conducted by people who are paid and usually called “Centeng”. The name of Palang Pintu comes from Betawi Tengah and Betawi Kota people, while Betawi Pinggiran and Betawi Ora call it as “Rebut Dandang or “Tepuk Dandang”.