Small Vendors’ Freedom: Journey from Apem Cakes to Es Doger

The celebration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day under President Prabowo Subianto had a special and inclusive atmosphere this year. Around 60 small business vendors were invited to participate, with all their products purchased by the State Palace and served to guests, 80 percent of whom were members of the public. This gesture brought immense gratitude from vendors like Wahyu, a seller of traditional kue apem cakes, and an es doger vendor who entered the State Palace for the first time. The vendors were stationed at three key points within the Palace premises to serve 30,000 portions of food and drinks for free to the public. This unique opportunity allowed visitors to experience the State Palace up close, with one attendee expressing his excitement on Instagram. The event was not just a celebration but also a symbol of the Palace’s newfound openness under President Prabowo, bringing together officials, citizens, and street vendors in a spirit of unity.

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