Local Identity Fighter

November, 10th 2018

Illustration title : Local Hero

Illustrator : Destiana (me)

Drawing media : Wacom on Photoshop

Drawing date : 26th August 2018

Location : Bhayangkara Street No. 7, Ngampilan, Yogyakarta

I'm actually not sure if "becak" is officially recognized as a  traditional local transportation like "andong" in Jogja but in my point of view this transportation is one that makes Jogja like what it is, rich of culture, comfortable and environment friendly, far from over-modernization. This transportation is somehow able to decrease the local character which gradually degraded by unwise industrialization. For only 10 years Jogja is already filled up rapidly with about 95% motorcycles and cars, no place for bicycle and other traditional transportation. Even when The Government create a special tiny spaces for bicycle at front street on traffic light junction, those who are going by motorcycles and cars always take over that space. They also often get angry when becak is on their way. Why people couldn't appreciate  traditional transportation existence? Why the Government didn't create more advance system to solve this issue ?

I'm so thankful to those who preserve this transportation because without them there is no more Jogja in my eyes. Jogja without traditional transportation is just like other cities that drown by technologies without being able to preserve their character well.

Follow my IG @destian.a for more illustration.