Small Vendors Taste Freedom at State Palace: From Apem Cakes to Es Doger

On Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day celebration, President Prabowo Subianto created a unique and inclusive atmosphere. About 60 small business vendors were specially invited to the State Palace, with all their goods purchased by the Palace to serve guests, 80 percent of whom were members of the public. The vendors, like Wahyu selling traditional kue apem cakes, expressed their gratitude and happiness for the opportunity. One es doger vendor, stepping foot inside the Palace for the first time, was overwhelmed by the grand and festive atmosphere. This year, the Palace invited 60 micro, small, and medium enterprises to provide 30,000 free portions of food and drinks to the public at three key locations within the Palace grounds. For many visitors, being able to experience the State Palace up close was an extraordinary experience. Attendees, including @ijoeel on Instagram, were amazed by the openness and accessibility of the Palace grounds, usually restricted from public access. The event was praised for the security arrangements by the Presidential Security Forces, striking a balance between safety and hospitality. This year’s celebration was a reflection of the Palace’s new openness under President Prabowo, bringing together officials, citizens, and small street vendors in a shared space of unity.

Source link