ABSTRACT
This study discusses the Betawi ethnic group’s struggle for identity, place and recognition in the Indonesian National Movement during 1923–1941. Using the historical method for gathering and analysing data, this study explores the role of the Kaoem Betawi organisation in directing its cultural and social values in the national context. The study reveals that the ethnic group failed to put itself in a strategic position in the Indonesian National Movement due to the absence of outstanding political figures such as Muhammad Husni Thamrin, and the lack of media support for disseminating its ideas and opinions. The unfavourable internal conditions of the group and its low standing regarding other ethnic groups weakened its role in dealing with national issues and hindered the organisation from providing significant contributions to the movement’s objectives. All these negative factors led to the diminishing role of the Kaoem in the Indonesian National Movement during their struggle for independence from the Dutch. This study also shows that although the Kaoem was only a local organisation in scope, it had a high spirit of nationalism.
