Pasar Pagi wholesale market overshadowed by modern malls

Dewi Santoso, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Pasar Pagi (the morning market) existed long before most malls and shopping centers in the city.

"I used to have a lot of customers. They came here for many things, from clothes and toys to school supplies and kitchenware, because they could get them here at cheaper prices," said Amen, the owner of a grocery shop in the Pasar Pagi complex.

The 58-year-old, who started working in the complex 40 years ago through helping out his father, recalled that, although Christmas had not been widely celebrated in Indonesia at that time, it did impact on his business.

"Business during Christmas was not as busy as it was during Idul Fitri or Chinese New Year, when I could sell dozens of cartons of clothes and toys. But still, I made more money at Christmas as more people bought toys for their kids," he said, adding that plastic guns, cars and big dolls were the best- selling items.

However, Pasar Pagi's popularity declined with the development of modern shopping centers and malls across the capital.

"They offered a new look and probably a more comfortable environment, so people switched their loyalties, it was as simple as that," said Amen.

Heri, a toy shop owner also in Pasar Pagi, voiced a similar complaint.

"I used to have a busy day everyday. Sometimes, I even forgot to have lunch. But things started to slow down years ago when trade centers and malls were erected," said the 47-year-old, whose shop was founded by his grandfather.

Located on Jl. Asemka, West Jakarta -- near Chinatown -- Pasar Pagi was established in the 17th century by the Dutch colonial government and was known for both its retail and wholesale shops.

When the more modern Pasar Pagi Mangga Dua was opened on Sept. 18, 1989, most shop owners in the old overcrowded Pasar Pagi market were relocated.

Things did not improve as malls were built in Jakarta's five municipalities and Pasar Pagi was virtually forgotten.

"Not many retailers come here now. Christmas no longer makes a difference to my business. Yes, I still have loyal customers, but they are wholesalers. As for retailers, I've lost more than half of them.

"I am not expecting anything, but hope that my customers keep coming back, otherwise Pasar Pagi will only exist in the past," Amen said.