javaprivatetour.com – Underneath the bustling Angke Toll Road in West Jakarta, lies a hidden community of people (around 83 Families) who have found comfort in living in a place most would consider uninhabitable.
Life under the bridge
To enter their world, you must stoop low and enter through a small hole in the concrete barrier, barely 70 centimeters high. Once inside, you stand in a narrow space between the two lanes of the toll road, which becomes the main thoroughfare for the community.
Budi, a resident for seven years, says he moved here from a government-owned apartment because he couldn’t afford the high water and electricity bills. Here, he gets water from a well he dug himself and pays nothing for rent.
Despite the cramped space and constant noise from the traffic above, Budi says he’s comfortable living here. He can easily go about his work as a scavenger and earn around Rp 100,000 per day.
Another resident, Ani, a mother of one, says she moved here five years ago to escape the high rent of Rp 1 million per month. She now pays only Rp 300,000 for water and electricity and helps her husband support the family by selling coffee sachets.
A semblance of normalcy
Life under the bridge may seem unconventional, but for these people, it’s a reality they’ve come to accept. They’ve found ways to make it work, creating a semblance of normalcy amidst the unconventional surroundings.
There’s a school for the children, a mosque under construction, and even small businesses where residents can buy their daily necessities.
A Glimpse of Hope: The School Under the Angke Toll Road
Amidst the harsh realities of life under the Angke Toll Road, a glimmer of hope shines through in the form of a small school called Sekolah Pondok Domba Kolong.
A school for the children
The school’s colorful walls, adorned with animal characters, houses, and grass, provide a welcome respite from the surrounding grayness. Inside, children from the community gather to learn to read, write, and identify animals and plants.
Dedicated volunteers
The school is run by dedicated volunteers who provide free education to the children of the toll road community. There are currently around 70 students enrolled, ranging from kindergarten to elementary school level.
A lifeline for the community
Sekolah Pondok Domba Kolong is more than just a school. It is a lifeline for the community, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. It is a symbol of hope for a better future, where education is accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances.
A helping hand
The community also receives support from various groups, such as churches, artists, and YouTubers, who provide food and other essential items.
Java Private Tour: Committed to responsible tourism
As a responsible tour operator, Java Private Tour is committed to giving back to the communities we visit. We believe that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a brighter future for all.
Support the school
If you would like to support Sekolah Pondok Domba Kolong, you can donate school supplies, books, or money. You can also volunteer your time to teach or help with other tasks.
Java Private Tour: Your guide to exploring Java
If you’re planning a trip to Java and want to experience the hidden side of Jakarta Slums, consider joining a private tour with Java Private Tour.
Our experienced guides will take you beyond the tourist traps and introduce you to the real Jakarta, including the communities living under the Angke Toll Road.
We offer a variety of tours to suit your interests, from cultural tours to historical tours and even culinary tours.
Why choose Java Private Tour?
- Our guides are fluent in English and have extensive knowledge of Java.
- We offer flexible itineraries that can be customized to your preferences.
- We have a fleet of comfortable and well-maintained vehicles.
- We are a reliable and trusted tour operator with a proven track record.
BOOK HERE today to start planning your unforgettable Java adventure! Or you can simply click this link : https://wa.link/wk2hur to chat with us on WhatsApp.
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