Kemang, Jakarta

Coordinates: 6°15′39″S 106°49′15″E / 6.2608°S 106.8208°E / -6.2608; 106.8208

Kemang Raya Street, a shopping street in Kemang

Kemang is a neighborhood located mostly in the district of Mampang Prapatan and partly within Pejaten Barat administrative village in South Jakarta, Indonesia. The main area of Kemang is marked by the roads of Jalan Kemang Raya, Jalan Prapanca, and Jalan Bangka.

History

The name Kemang came from the fruit kemang, a species of mango (Mangifera kemanga). Kemang was originally a kampung (village) which has been gentrified into an expatriate residential area.The gentrification of Kemang started after the end of the 1970s. The adjacent Bangka kampung, which was also gentrified, is sometimes referred as "Kemang" as well, although this was originally a different village. Kemang was a quiet Betawi kampong dotted with mosques in traditional Javanese style.[1] During the 1970s, the land in Kemang was sold for residential use. The lush green character of Kemang attracted people into this area, including expatriates. The neighborhood is also close to Golden Triangle of Jakarta. This also makes it convenient for expats who need to get around town but can’t waste too much time in traffic each day.

In 1998, the Governor of Jakarta Sutiyoso changed the status of Kemang from a residential (as stated in the 1985-2005 city master plan) into a commercial area. In the following year, he strengthened the decision with the issuance of a decree declaring Kemang as a "modern kampong" (modern village). This brings more commercial activities into the area, as houses are converted into retails.[2] Despite of, lack of urban planning has resulted in congestion in its relatively narrow road.[3] Located between the two streams of Krukut River and Mampang River, without any flood control, Kemang is prone to flooding every rainy season.

Attractions

Since 1970s Kemang has grown into a bustling area known for its international-oriented facilities such as traditional craft retails and night clubs. Some of the original kampung still exists behind the high-class residential apartment and housing complex. This unique contrast between the original Muslim community and the international expatriate community has created a unique laid-back typology that feels more like an old town than a new city.[2] At present, Kemang is filled with businesses and homes. Hotels, banks, food courts, restaurants, cafes and bars, salons, nightclubs and shops are abundant.[4][5] There are also academic institutions with international standards are also there to complete the neighborhood.

Kemang hosts the Kemang Festival, held once or twice every year since 2001. During the festival, roads in Kemang are pedestrianized and vendors fill the street offering traditional souvenirs, clothing, and food. Also. Grandkemang Hotel of the area hosts the Indonesian Contemporary Art & Design (ICAD) exhibition every year.

Transportation

The area can be reached by TransJakarta corridor 6. There are Kopaja service from Pasar Minggu station of Jakarta Commuter Rail, also from Pasar Minggu and Blok M bus station.

See also

References

  1. ↑ Shahab, Alwi (2001). Robinhood Betawi: kisah Betawi tempo doeloe (in Indonesian). Republika. pp. 119–122. ISBN 9789793210001. Retrieved July 30, 2017.
  2. 1 2 T. Sima Gunawan (September 6, 2006). "Kemang - Modern Kampong: Jakarta, Indonesia". Indonesia in Focus. Planet Mole. Retrieved July 30, 2017.
  3. ↑ "Eksekusi Lahan di Kemang Raya Akibatkan Kemacetan" (in Indonesian). May 21, 2010. Retrieved July 30, 2017.
  4. ↑ "JakPost guide to Jl. Kemang Raya: Part 1". The Jakarta Post. Retrieved 2017-07-30.
  5. ↑ "Jakpost guide to Jl. Kemang Timur". The Jakarta Post. Retrieved 2017-08-09.
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