Imagine ten big buffaloes walking on the land. That was Condet in Kramat Jati long ago. Today, we explore Kramat Jati, a district in East Jakarta, Indonesia. It is a place with a unique story. Kramat Jati is bordered by the Jagorawi Toll Road to the east. The Ciliwung River marks its western boundary. To the north lies the Jakarta-Cikampek Tollway.
Kramat Jati holds a special area called Condet. Condet is known for Betawi culture and agriculture. It includes Batu Ampar, Bale Kambang, and Kampung Tengah. Once, Condet was full of fruit orchards. Now, it faces modern development. This threatens the Betawi culture.
The oldest written record of Condet dates back to April 25, 1716. Prince Aria Pourobaya mentioned the land called Tsondet in his will. By 1753, Javanese and Makassarese people inhabited the area. Dain Matara, Prince Aria Pourobaya, and their families owned the land. In 1927, Condet was listed as private land in Meester Cornelis.
Today, Kramat Jati is home to many Arab Indonesians. They have moved here from other parts of Jakarta. Many perfume stores line the streets. Al-Hawi mosque is a focal point, with many shops owned by Arabs.
Kramat Jati is divided into seven administrative villages. These are Kramat Jati, Batuampar, Balekambang, Kampung Tengah, Dukuh, Cawang, and Cililitan. Each village has its own area code. Important places in Kramat Jati include PTQ Al-Utsmani Condet and Christian University of Indonesia. Also, Gardu Induk PLN Cawang serves the area.
Cawang is one of Kramat Jati’s administrative villages. The name Cawang may come from Encik Awang, a Malay lieutenant. He served the Dutch. Another story says it comes from Cai Wang Hui. He was a Chinese merchant. He escaped the Batavia massacre. He built his residence here.
Kramat Jati is more than just a district. It is a blend of history and culture. It is a place where old traditions meet modern life. As we leave Kramat Jati, remember its story. Think of the buffaloes and the orchards. Remember the people who shaped this unique place.