In Every Route

Over the past year, I’ve been trying to use public transportation to get to Jakarta—ranging from angkot (minibuses) and buses to trains—for trips to exhibitions or other needs. Squeezing into crowded commuter trains or TransJakarta buses is likely routine for the hardworking people of the city. Often, I see pregnant women, the elderly, and people with physical disabilities who may have no choice but to ride overcrowded public transport during peak hours.

Conflicts on commuter trains or TransJakarta buses aren’t uncommon and can easily diminish your endorphin or dopamine levels when anger takes over. But that’s life in a metropolitan city—you need a lot of patience. I try to embrace the journey as part of the artistic process. Patience truly has no limits. My teacher once reminded me of God’s words: "And be patient! Indeed, Allah is with those who are patient."

May those undergoing trials be granted ease and an abundance of patience.