The Arts of Survival

‘Survival is the act or process of surviving’

Fig 1: Jakarta, Indonesia (August 2006)

The main question everyone has in their minds is probably: ‘Is the slums really a problem?’ Even if you are saying it is a problem, what right have you got to say that? Do those who say it is a real problem really understand what is going on? Do you truly care for the victims and do the things you say you would to help them? For definite, the slums is a part of our culture, our world. It is a tough but somehow, inspiring reality. Yes, they are the first victims of flood; they suffer from poverty and so on. However, instead of pessimistically talk about the slums, in this entry; I will be pointing out one of the good points of the slums.

Why do I say that it is inspiring? When you are homeless, I think it is very courageous, by hook or by crook, to resort to creating a home for yourself, in any form possible.

In some ways, I would actually say the people of the slums are inspiring designers. From whatever scrap materials they can find, they create tools or machines for living purposes. Such innovation not only takes great courage, but also great determination and god-like powers!

For example, in Jakarta (capital of Indonesia), where 40 to 50% of the population is living in slums condition, there are many cases where the dwellers makes their own equipment to make a living. In Jakarta, there are many ‘road-side stalls’ selling all kinds of foods and sweets. Most of them are managed by the slums dwellers.

Figs 2 and 3: A ‘pancake maker’ made out of scrap metals.

When I went to Jakarta last summer, it was my first time being able to interact with the general public. I was completely astonished by how the slums dwellers put their heart and soul into ‘surviving’. For countless times, I thought to myself: ‘If it was me, would I have been able to make that machinery?’ It’s not like the slums dwellers had any form of education! I asked the man who was making the pancakes for me: ‘Did you make this cart yourself?’ Yes was the obvious but still far-fetched answer. When I asked how, he didn’t give me an answer. My friend said that he was probably afraid I would ‘steal’ his idea.

I can understand why he could have thought that way. Imagine having that ‘pancake maker’ as your only source of income for your family.

It was only at that point of time though, that I wondered why he was so ‘cold’ towards my concern or rather interest. This raises the question if help from ‘outsiders’ was what they wanted. Just because you’re better-off doesn’t actually give you the authority to do whatever you want or decide for them. What is then, supposedly right or ethical?

In my opinion, if you truly care and want to help them, you must do it right! Go live with them (for example) and feel with them to fully realize what they need. You could be surprised that they might not even need any help actually.

References:
www.essortment.com/lifestyle/dealwithinlaw_szvv.htm
www.citymayors.com
www.newint.org
rs.resalliance.org
M Davis, Planet of Slums