Fajarasia.id – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar emphasized the importance of safeguarding the sustainability of jamu — Indonesia’s traditional herbal drink — as part of the nation’s culinary identity. She delivered the message during the closing ceremony of the Festival Jamu Nusantara at Taman Fatahillah, Kota Tua Jakarta, on Sunday (Nov 16).
According to Irene, jamu should not be seen merely as a fading traditional beverage. Today, many jamu makers have begun utilizing digital platforms to sell their products. “This is crucial to revive the culture of drinking jamu so that we do not forget our cultural roots,” she said.
Historical Value and Struggles of Jamu Makers
Irene highlighted the strong historical value of spices used in jamu, describing the daily struggles of traditional jamu gendong sellers who carry heavy loads to preserve the tradition. “Every bottle of jamu we enjoy has a long journey before reaching the hands of the people,” she remarked.
She further noted that preserving jamu requires collaboration with modern businesses to encourage wider consumption. Combining tradition with innovation, she argued, could help introduce jamu to younger generations.
Honoring Cultural Resilience
Founder of Acaraki, Jony Yuwono, added that the festival coincided with Heroes’ Day to honor the perseverance of jamu gendong sellers as symbols of cultural resilience. “They wake up at four in the morning to prepare fresh ingredients, then walk for kilometers regardless of rain or heat. That spirit is what we want to remind people of,” he explained.
Jony also stressed the importance of recognizing everyday workers who support their families, from jamu makers to informal laborers such as street sweepers and motorcycle taxi drivers.
Festival Highlights
The closing of the festival featured musical performances, traditional games, and a fashion show showcasing Indonesia’s rich spice heritage. Organizers hope the event will spark public interest and reinforce jamu’s position as a culinary legacy worthy of preservation.
