Juliana Siahaan
Nov 18, 2025
Weaving Belonging: BSJ’s New Tradition Celebrates the Javanese Spirit of Guyub
In a celebration of culture and community, The British School Jakarta (BSJ) has introduced a new tradition that embodies one of Java’s most enduring philosophies guyub (/ɡu.jʊb/), meaning togetherness, unity, empathy, and mutual cooperation.
The initiative forms part of BSJ’s comprehensive wellbeing unique world class strategy, which focuses on fostering belonging, connection, and a shared sense of purpose across the school community.
Rooted in ancient Javanese wisdom, guyub is a way of life centred on social harmony, the belief that when joy is shared and pain is consoled, people are drawn closer together. This deep sense of mutual care aligns beautifully with BSJ’s vision of creating a thriving, inclusive community where every individual feels valued, supported and successful.
As part of the new tradition, every incoming staff member receives a piece of batik, one of Indonesia’s most iconic cultural expressions. Each year, a new design is selected, chosen for its symbolic motifs and rich meaning. From that same fabric, bespoke items of clothing are crafted for new staff members, representing both their individual journey and their unity as a cohort.
“This initiative helps brings our wellbeing philosophy to life,” explains Andrea Downie, Head of Wellbeing at BSJ. “It connects our new team members to Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage while building a tangible sense of belonging and shared identity. Through guyub, we celebrate what it means to come together, with empathy, connection, and joy.”
Beyond its symbolic beauty, this tradition reflects BSJ’s broader commitment to cultural appreciation and inclusivity, a school that honours its local context while nurturing a global perspective.
At BSJ, wellbeing is not just an idea; it’s an outcome of what we can feel, hear and see- and now even can wear!
