BREAKING NEWS

Jokowi to be welcomed with Batak tradition at GBRAN inauguration


JAKARTA, Aug 7, 2026 — Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo is scheduled to attend the inauguration of regional leaders of the Gerakan Berani Nusantara (GBRAN) organisation in Jakarta on Saturday, where he will be welcomed with a traditional Batak dance and the presentation of an ulos cloth, the group's chairman said.

GBRAN Chairman Rimson Maruli Sinaga said the welcome was intended as a gesture of respect for Widodo, who also serves as an adviser to the organisation.

"The presentation of the ulos to Mr Joko Widodo is a form of GBRAN's respect for a national figure who has contributed to and brought major changes to Indonesia," Rimson told SuaraNegeri.co.id on Friday (7/8) evening.

The traditional tortor dance and ulos ceremony are part of Batak cultural traditions and can carry meanings of respect, acceptance, goodwill and brotherhood, depending on the context of the ceremony and the type of ulos presented.

The inauguration of GBRAN's regional leadership from across Indonesia is scheduled to take place at the Discovery Hotel Ancol in North Jakarta on Saturday, Aug. 8.

The event is expected to be attended by GBRAN officials from various regions across Indonesia. (Gusti Haes)