Daily Life: Market, Field, and Rice Processing

Daily Life: Markets

In Indonesia, traditional markets, known as pasar, are an important facet of daily life.
These bustling markets open early in the morning, providing a space to buy and sell a wide range of goods from fresh produce to clothing and household items.
The act of bargaining is common in these markets, it is considered a social interaction and not merely a transaction.
Traditional markets also serve as a place of social exchange where people gather, communicate, and maintain their social bonds.

Agriculture, particularly rice farming, plays a crucial role in the everyday life of many Indonesians.
The country’s fertile fields, especially on the island of Java, are cultivated with rice paddies and are an iconic landscape of Indonesia.
Families often tend to their own small rice fields, known as sawah, using traditional methods passed down through generations.
Working the fields is not only seen as occupational, but holds a significant cultural value linking individuals to nature and their ancestors.

After cultivation, rice grains are harvested and undergo a series of processing steps to become edible.
This process typically involves threshing, to separate the grain from the stalk, winnowing to remove the husk and impurities, and finally milling to polish the grains.
Rice processing is often a communal activity, bringing families and communities together.
The final product, white rice, is a staple food in Indonesia, appearing in almost every meal and holding a central role in various cultural and religious rituals.