A visual guide to Jakarta's Shopping Bazaars
Early in my arrival to Jakarta I recall overhearing a group of women chatting excitedly at a local cafe. A rising sense of anticipation was evident in their conversation. And then I heard the word, bazaar. There was a flurry of organising that ensued - Where would they meet? What was on each other's shopping lists? and the all-important, Would they 'do' lunch afterwards? Being an enthusiastic shopper myself, I was curious to know what they were talking about, but being a little shy at the time, I was reluctant to ask so I returned my attention to my latte.
However, it wasn't long before light was shed on the bazaar mystery. An email from one of the organisations arrived in my inbox (I had signed up as a member), letting me know that their mid-year bazaar was coming soon. It was to be held at one of Jakarta's many high-end hotels. I put the date in my calendar, gathered a few friends I had recently made and together we explored my first bazaar. Needless to say, it wasn't to be my last.
Who runs the bazaars?
The bazaars are mostly run by the many Expatriate Associations of Jakarta. The best known bazaars on the calendar are organised by the British Women's Association (BWA), the Australian and New Zealand Association (ANZA) and the American Women's Association (AMA) but don't dismiss the smaller bazaars too - the Thai bazaar is known for its delicious food!
Who benefits from the bazaars?
Your entry fee as well as the stall holder fees directly benefit the charities nominated by the Association hosting the bazaar. These nominated charities support various social welfare projects in the local community.
What can you find at the bazaars of Jakarta?
All sorts of things! From clothing, shoes and handbags to jewellery, cushions and cushion covers. Think housewares, pottery, picture frames, greeting cards, Christmas decorations, toys, and food items. Some of the products are imported from abroad, but most are made in Indonesia and include many varieties of indigenous handicrafts from across the archipelago such as batik, woven cloths, woodcarvings and basketware.
When and where do the bazaars take place?
The bazaars of Jakarta typically occur twice a year; in the lead up to Christmas (where many expats return to their homeland bearing gifts sourced from the bazaars) and also during May - June, to coincide with the midyear holiday period. Although you will no doubt hear about the bazaars via word of mouth, you can contact the Associations directly for exact dates and locations (contact details are at the bottom of this post).
Who attends the bazaars?
Although attended by some local people, the vast majority of attendees are expatriates from all over the world. It is not unusual to see expats accompanied by visiting family or friends, exploring the various stalls and engaging with the stallholders. In most cases the stallholders are able to provide a background on their wares. Engaging with the stallholder and learning about your purchase enhances the enjoyment of this shopping experience.
Why visit a bazaar?
Indonesia is an archipelago that stretches over 5000km and as a result, has a wealth of cultural handicrafts that are as diverse as its many cultures. The bazaars of Jakarta provide a snap shot of specific handicrafts made in different parts of Indonesia. Over time (and with repeat visits), you will be able to identify where items have originated as their style and method of manufacture is specific to a particular region. Of course, having so many handicrafts represented under the one roof is very convenient too.
With each bazaar comes new and interesting products. The following are some examples of purchases that Liz and I have made over the past few years during our time in Jakarta. These images will give you an idea of the variety of items available, but nothing beats going to a Jakarta Bazaar to see for yourself.
Selamat berbelanja! (Enjoy your shopping!)
FABRICS
A selection of Javanese batik from Lucy's Batik
Batik in different shades and patterns
A selection of batik from across the archipelago
Made from recycled saris and hand stitched to create unique combinations, these Kantha quilts have been sourced from a BWA bazaar
Kantha quilts originated in Bangladesh and eastern India.
A combination of sarongs and turkish towels purchased at a recent BWA bazaar. The turkish towels are by Constantinople Gallery and the sarong (top) is by Tiny Story Great Objects
Ikat cushion by Constantinople Gallery
HOMEWARES
Quirky handmade spoons by Semaya Clay. Purchased at a BWA bazaar
Cute little bowls by Semaya Clay. Recently picked up at a BWA bazaar
Assortment of timber spoons sourced at an ANZA bazaar
Beaten copper tray by Denny Ardisasmita of The Iron Workshop. Purchased at an ANZA bazaar
Coconut palm bowl
Tea cups made from recycled wine bottles and offcuts of leather. By Ffrash
FASHION
Indonesian made clutch bags including Python skin leather clutch (right) by Gitte Baker
Python skin leather cuff by Gitte Baker (top) and hand beaded hoop earrings both purchased at a recent BWA bazaar
ADORNMENTS
Papuan headdress sourced at an AMA bazaar. The stallholders' shop is located on Jl. Surabaya in Menteng, Jakarta
Butterflies by Tiny Story Great Objects
OTHER
Gift cards by Constantinople Gallery
Handmade Card by Momoka Kihira of Momoka and Titisbulan. The Caption, ‘Where you go we will surely be friends’ is so apt. I bought this card knowing that it would come in handy living the expat life…
Batik pin cushions purchased at a BWA bazaar. By Something Nice + Takako
Suppliers Information
Constantinople Gallery
Email: Constantinople.gallery@gmail.com
Instagram: Constantinople Gallery
Ffrash Designs
HP: +62 8111 5509 11/ +62 813 1909 3318
Web: Ffrash Designs
Gitte Baker
Email: gittebaker@gmail.com
Iron Workshop (Pak Denny Ardisasmita)
Jl. Madrasah No. 31
Jeruk Purut
Jakarta Selatan
HP: 0817 135 548
Email: iron_workshop@yahoo.com
Lucy's Batik
Web: Lucy's Batik
Instagram: Lucy's Batik
Semaya Clay
Email: mail.semaya@gmail.com
Instagram: Semaya Clay
Something Nice + Takako
Instagram: Something Nice + Takako
Contact details for some Associations in Jakarta
American Women’s Association
British Women’s Association
Australian and New Zealand Association
Women’s International Club
Instituto di Cultura - Jakarta
De Nederlandse Club
Nordic Club of Jakarta
Canadian Womens Association
Did you know...The word, Bazaar is originally a Persian word, and means 'marketplace' throughout The Middle East. The word was adopted by the Italians, and then spread throughout Europe eventually finding itself in the English language.
A second definition for the word Bazaar is, ‘a sale of miscellaneous articles to benefit some charity, cause, organization, etc’. (Source: www.dictionary.com)
Words: Jo Stevens Photography: a journey bespoke
