Live-in Program

On Tuesday, January 16, I visited Pentingsari Village in Yogyakarta for a 4-day, 5-night live-in activity. The purpose of this program is to provide students with a firsthand experience of rural culture. To prepare for the stay, I packed several sets of clothes, trousers, personal items, and a small amount of nominal money. Initially, I didn't think the small amount of money would be crucial, but I later realized its significance in the village where it is more commonly used due to the relatively low prices of goods, and vendors often struggle with providing change for larger denominations.

On the first day, we gathered at SHB, where teachers conducted attendance and briefing activities. Following the briefing, we boarded buses according to our divisions and set off for Yogyakarta. The bus journey was enjoyable, filled with singing and deep conversations with friends.

The second day, Wednesday, January 17, marked our arrival in Pentingsari village. We held a reception event between SHB students and Pentingsari villagers. Afterward, I headed to my homestay for rest and a delicious breakfast of fried rice and eggs. In the afternoon, we convened at the Pendopo to learn Javanese gamelan, dance, batik, puppet making, and crafting with coconut leaves. The day concluded with the traditional “Kenduri” ceremony, a dinner event symbolizing the welcoming of guests to Pentingsari Village. After Kenduri, we returned to our homestays to rest.

On the third day, Thursday, January 18, I woke up, showered, and had yellow rice for breakfast. We then traveled to UGM for a campus tour, seminars on majors, and admission procedures. After the activities, we returned to the village. On the way back, I engaged in various activities with friends, including learning how to tie a tie. Upon returning to the village, we practiced for the closing ceremony and then rested.

The fourth day, Friday, January 19, began with morning routines and breakfast. We gathered at the “pendopo” for assembly and later explored home industries, including coffee, mushroom, and tempeh. After a coffee break and packing, we bid farewell to our hosts, had lunch, and visited a souvenir place and Malioboro. I purchased some food before returning to the bus to head back to Tangerang. During the journey, we ate and chatted, singing along to supportive songs.

On the fifth day, Saturday, January 20, we arrived at SHB 3 and returned to our respective homes.

Participating in this live-in activity taught me to live simply without luxuries. Despite the absence of a cellphone, I felt fulfilled, productive, and enjoyed exercising and spending time with friends. The experience also provided a refreshing break from urban life and its air pollution.

Caren Tjan – 11 IPS