By Retno Hapsari | General Manager
Independence Day in Indonesia is celebrated on August 17. This year, for the first time, the Cirendeu trash picker community held their very own Independence Day festivities.
For just one day, the trash pickers don't go out on the streets of Jakarta picking through garbage cans and dumpsters. This is their day to have fun, play games, and be with family and community.
From early morning until late afternoon, regardless of age, everyone has a chance to participate. There were sack races for both big and little kids and even for the adults. Carrying the marble on a spoon race was very popular and so was the tug of war. What everybody was waiting for, though, was the daring 'panjat pinang' challenge for the dads.
The trash pickers who compete in panjat pinang try to climb the pole, which is covered with oil to make it slippery. The goal is to be the first to reach the top of the pole, grab the best prize and slide down. Their wives and children cheer them on. Every man gets a chance to show his family how strong and skillful he is.
After all the games were finished, all the food was eaten and everyone was “happy tired”, it was agreed this was the best Independence Day celebration ever... until next year.
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