Lapangan Banteng used to be just a huge characterless square in the heart of Jakarta, because this place often used for some negative activities. And now, after over a year of renovation the face of the square which became a regular venue for the annual flora and fauna expo, Flona, has been changed dramatically.

The renovation project began in March, 2017 under then-acting Jakarta governor Sumarsono. It was funded by private companies through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs and fines collected from companies that breached building floor ratios.

Lapangan Banteng is located close to Jakarta Cathedral and Istiqlal Grand Mosque. It is a historic landmark that has been around since Dutch colonial rule. The Jakarta Government not only gave the monument a makeover and revitalized the green areas in the square, but also added a children’s playground, a jogging track and some beautiful spots. As well as ten walls bearing quotes pertaining to Irian Jaya’s liberation stand guard.

Photo Source: Alinear doc.

The main focus at this legendary park is a semi-circular amphitheater, facing the Irian Jaya Liberation Monument, sits next to a pond where a fountain dances to the sound of music. The fountain’s designer, Robby Krisna, chose songs that represented Irian Jaya’s liberation as well as Indonesia’s nationalism and cultural richness.

He chose three national songs, Indonesia Pusaka, Bagimu Negeri, and Satu Nusa Satu Bangsa. While the cultural songs are Yamko Rambe Yamko from Papua and a medley of Betawi songs, Ondel-ondel, Jali-jali, Keroncong Kemayoran, and Surilang. The fountain display started at 19.30, 20.30, and 20.30 every weekend.