Elderly Man from Depok Queues for Hours to Seek Livelihood at Palace Open House
A 63-year-old man from Depok, Slamet Riyadi, queued since 9:00 AM WITA for the open house at the State Palace. Slamet hoped to receive food staples during the open house to add to his family’s food stock.
“Well, since we’re on holiday from work, rather than idling around or sitting idly at home. As people without much, we have to find ways to earn a living for the family,” said Slamet in front of the State Secretariat Gate, Central Jakarta, on Saturday (21/3/2026).
Slamet took the train from his home in Depok around 8:30 AM. He said this was the first time he had attended the open house at the Palace.
“It’s fine. In my whole life, this is the first time. Just this time. Just queuing now. I never did before,” he said.
Slamet now works odd jobs after being laid off in 2019. He used to work as a driver.
“Well, this happens every year here. Even I never came before, from way back. Just this time. Because joining the crowded event, tagging along,” said Slamet.
“If it’s given willingly, I’ll accept it; if not, no problem. But rather than sitting idly at home. We’ve already done family visits, so rather than what to do at home,” he added.
Slamet admitted to always choosing President Prabowo Subianto in four presidential elections. He hoped Prabowo would fulfil his campaign promises to prosper the people.
“Well, maybe if possible, his promises are to prosper society, to achieve Golden Indonesia 2045. But why, almost a year now, no information at all. My work is still hard, staples are still expensive, and other things are still difficult too,” he said.
Slamet is originally from Banyumas Regency, Central Java, now migrating and living in Depok. He only brought a red plastic bag while queuing for the Palace open house.
Previously, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya stated that the open house at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta, was held today starting from 12:00 PM WITA. Teddy mentioned the open house capacity was up to 5,000 people.
“We open (the open house) after Zuhr prayer. Maybe at 12, 1 o’clock, please come. (Capacity) around 5,000 maybe like last year. Of course, we’ve prepared inside; if it doesn’t fit, outside is also prepared by the State Secretary Minister, tents, and then they take turns entering,” said Teddy during a visit in Medan, North Sumatra, on Friday (20/3) night.
Teddy said the open house was open from afternoon until evening. He invited the public to attend the open house at the Palace with their families.
“Of course, opened from 12 maybe until Maghrib, taking turns for the public who might come with family to celebrate Eid, whether bringing one family or stopping by the Palace, you’re welcome,” he continued.