Public Places
1. What kinds of public places do you like to visit in your free time, and why do you enjoy going there?
I really enjoy visiting shopping malls like Grand Indonesia or Plaza Indonesia because they offer air conditioning and a variety of activities under one roof. I also love going to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah to learn about different cultures from across the archipelago. These places help me relax and socialize with friends while escaping Jakarta’s heat and traffic.
2. How often do you go to parks or other outdoor public spaces in your city?
I try to visit parks like Monas or Taman Suropati at least once or twice a month, usually on weekends. It’s quite challenging to go more often because of Jakarta’s unpredictable weather and my busy university schedule. When I do go, I usually bring friends along to jog or just sit and chat while enjoying some fresh air.
3. Do you prefer busy public places with lots of people or quieter ones? Why?
I generally prefer quieter public places because they help me feel more relaxed and less stressed. Busy places like Kota Tua on weekends can be overwhelming with all the crowds and noise. However, I do enjoy the energy of busy places occasionally, especially when I want to people-watch or feel connected to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
4. Have public places in your area changed much since you were a child?
Yes, there have been significant changes in my area over the past decade. Many new shopping centers and cafes have opened, making the neighborhood much more modern and convenient. Unfortunately, some of the traditional markets and older recreational areas have been replaced by commercial buildings, which makes me a bit nostalgic for my childhood.
Lending and Borrowing
5. Do you often lend things to your friends or family members? What kinds of things do you usually lend?
I frequently lend things to my close friends and family, especially items like books, phone chargers, or clothes for special occasions. I’m quite generous with lending because I believe in helping others when they need something. However, I’m more careful about lending expensive items like my laptop or motorcycle to make sure they’re returned in good condition.
6. Have you ever borrowed something important from someone? What was it?
Last year, I borrowed my friend’s camera for a university project because I needed to create a documentary film. It was quite expensive equipment, so I was very nervous about using it and made sure to handle it extremely carefully. I was so grateful for their trust, and I returned it immediately after finishing my project along with a small gift as a thank you.
7. Do you feel comfortable asking others to lend you things, or do you prefer to buy your own?
I generally prefer to buy my own things because I don’t like feeling indebted to others or worrying about damaging borrowed items. However, when it comes to expensive items that I’ll only use once, like formal wear for special events, I’m comfortable asking close friends or family. I always make sure to ask politely and offer something in return to maintain good relationships.
8. What would you do if someone didn’t return something they borrowed from you?
I would first give them a gentle reminder in case they simply forgot, as people can be quite busy with their daily lives. If they still don’t return it after a reasonable time, I would have a direct but polite conversation about it. Ultimately, I’d probably let it go to preserve the relationship, but I’d be more cautious about lending to that person in the future.
Strict Rules
9. Are there any strict rules at your workplace or school that you find particularly challenging to follow?
At my university, we have very strict attendance requirements where missing more than three classes can result in failing the course. This is challenging because Jakarta’s traffic is unpredictable, and sometimes I get stuck in macet for hours despite leaving early. I understand the importance of attendance, but I wish there was more flexibility for transportation-related delays that are beyond our control.
10. Do you think strict rules are necessary in society? Why or why not?
I believe strict rules are definitely necessary to maintain order and safety in Indonesian society, especially with our large population and diverse communities. Without clear regulations, places like busy intersections in Jakarta or public transportation would be complete chaos. However, I think rules should be fair and reasonable, with some flexibility for special circumstances that people might face.
11. When you were growing up, did your parents have strict rules for you at home?
Yes, my parents were quite strict about my study schedule and required me to finish homework before watching TV or playing games. They also had rules about coming home before maghrib prayer and always telling them where I was going. Looking back, I’m grateful for these rules because they taught me discipline and responsibility, even though I sometimes found them annoying as a teenager.
12. How do you feel when you see people breaking rules in public places?
I feel quite frustrated when I see people breaking rules, especially when it affects others, like motorcyclists riding on sidewalks or people littering in parks. It makes me worry about our collective responsibility as citizens to maintain public spaces and follow social norms. However, I usually don’t confront them directly because I prefer to avoid conflict, though I do try to set a good example by following the rules myself.
