oh dear, Jakarta

Oh dear, Jakarta.. I kept thinking about the love-hate relationship most people have with this city. What is it about this city, that some love so much that they stay on despite the sometimes-unbearable traffic jam, while others simply move away from it for they can’t stand the unbearable traffic?  No wonder they call it the Big Durian – other you love it, or you hate it. It’s thorn on the outside, but it’s soft and chewy once you make the effort to crack it open.

The city’s number one hate will remain it's traffic, which with it comes the pollution. Next comes the lack of the pedestrian walks. Then its lack of parks and green area,  as a result from the never-ending development of residential high-rise as well as the excessive shopping malls and the toll ring road in the city. Nevertheless, the city keeps me curious with its little gems such as Sunda Kelapa harbour, Jakarta's old town, old China town as well as the remnants of old Batavia. After all, this is the capital city and people do come to follow their dreams to become "somebody". But some of them who can't  fight against the gleam of the city must accept the fact that they are left alone in the corners for the city. Holding on with their life or even living in idle spaces around called slum area. 

For the government really need to review its granting developers for new malls, apartment and toll ring road.  The city is getting way too congested, and we need the green area, parks to reduce the pollution effect of the million numbers of cars and motorcycle. As for now Jakarta is turned out to be Jakarta motor city. 

If ever, I would still like to be here to witness the city grow into a better and more livable city.  So here’s wishing for a better and much loved Jakarta. A little hopes, comes from the new governor. I wish he can solve that complicated problem in Jakarta. Goodluck sir! :p

some of effusion from the artist who lived in Jakarta, about the city: