Disabled singers' voices echo at Jakarta's Istiqlal Mosque

Unfortunately, as of today, the much-awaited disability cash assistance has yet materialised. Jakarta (ANTARA) – The dawn at Bojonggede Station in Bogor, West Java, was still shrouded in fog as Dika and her sister Niar rushed to catch the earliest commuter train to Jakarta. It coincided with the celebration of Idul Adha 1447 Hijriyah, when millions prepared to reunite with family, but the two women chose to travel dozens of kilometres to seek seasonal fortune at the heart of the capital. Their steps finally settled at the gates of Istiqlal Mosque, facing the elegant cathedral across the street. As the sermon concluded and worshippers began to exit, Dika immediately spring into action. Her strong fingers gripped the handheld loudspeaker, hoisting it onto her shoulders. Leaning on a cane in her right hand, the blind woman took a deep breath, brought the microphone close to her lips, and began singing. ‘On holidays like this, the crowds are larger and more generous,’ N whispered, occasionally adjusting Dika’s stance to avoid being pushed by the growing crowds. For Dika, the hustle of footsteps and the scent of perfume around her signaled the start of her stage. With her acute hearing, she captured every detail of the surroundings as opportunities. Her clear, religious melodies cut through the city’s noise, instantly transforming the courtyard into a space of warmth. This marked the third consecutive year Dika and N relied on Istiqlal for hope during religious occasions. Their resources were modest: a modified mini electric speaker, a microphone, and genuine vocal talent honed from skills training at a special blind dormitory years ago. That skill has preserved their dignity on Jakarta’s harsh streets. Rather than beg for charity, Dika chose to vocalise, offering honest work to touch hearts. Becoming a street musician was the most logical step Dika could take to support her family. On regular days, she and N had to move between office districts and markets in East and South Jakarta. Their earnings were uncertain. ‘When it’s quiet, even Rp100,000 is a blessing. But on good days, Alhamdulillah, we can take home Rp300,000,’ N said cheerfully. The festive atmosphere at Istiqlal always promises a different story. The generosity of those who have just completed their prayers often fills their donation boxes with stacks of cash. Digital wallets add to this; on average, donors scan QR codes for over Rp5,000 each, allowing them to collect Rp500,000 to Rp600,000 in a day. Behind the optimism…