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The Struggle and Hope Behind the Roro Jonggrang Madiun Costume
It seems that Kartini’s costume emulates the formidable figure of a female warrior. Uniquely this time, the figure comes from a green costume that is often the talk of legend on the island of Java, Roro Jonggrang.
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I
t seems that Kartini’s costume emulates the formidable figure of a female warrior. Uniquely this time, the figure comes from a green costume that is often the talk of legend on the island of Java, Roro Jonggrang. Named Ugik, she is a woman who sells fried foods that went viral. The hashtag #ugikpenjualgorengan shows her astute figure swaying to the accompaniment of dangdut songs while selling fried foods around the village. Not to forget her phenomenal costume; the complete Roro Jonggrang kebaya to the hair crown makeup.
Apparently, this marks the first time she sets foot in Batavia. As one of 14 million PNM Mekaar customers, Ugik is considered special. Her creativity and persistence in selling brought Ugik the opportunity to attend PNM's invitation to the "Collab of Mothers & Journalists for Indonesian Inspiration.” Accompanied by an Account Officer (AO) from PNM Madium, Ayu, the woman finally had the chance to travel Jakarta with a happy face. Tireless, Ugik stayed on during the event the following day. Shy is not the right character to describe her. Ugik demonstrated her trademark swing when selling in front of the media crew. She also did not fail to don her iconic Roro Jonggrang costume that has been her outfit since that morning. When asked in Javanese, "Ma'am, aren't you tired of wearing high heels?" Ugik laughed and disagreed, “I'm really happy! Wearing slippers like this doesn't feel tiring!”
After breaking the fast together, the woman couldn’t hide her happiness. Ugik sat with Arief Mulyadi, President Director of PT PNM, having a warm dialogue. Arief is well known for his closeness to customers. It is not uncommon for him to personally invite PNM Mekaar customers, such as Libra from Bali, to visit his workplace at the head office.
"Until now, I didn’t think I could meet [the] Director. He is also very kind, very happy to thank Allah," Ugik again exhibited her innocence.
After arriving at the place where she was staying the night, she greeted with a distinctive smile in her pink dress. Ugik came down carrying a plastic bag filled with makeup. With a heavy heart, the PNM Team followed her with a new backpack for Ugik. Her smile got wider.
The trip to Soekarno Hatta Airport turned out to be the hardest, as the sky in the airport area became slightly overcast. The team had to confirm the situation a couple of times. Worried because she got carsick on the trip two days ago when she got picked up at Halim. Occasionally the team joked about it because “Si Roro Jonggrang” drank two sachets of motion sickness medicine.
Approaching the terminal, she pressed her face against the window with soft sobs. Suddenly, Ayu asked her if there was a problem. Ugik's tears could no longer be hidden.
"I am touched, I am very happy. I was able to get to Jakarta because of my efforts so far. Village people can believe in me and are proud that I can get to this point,” explained Ugik in Javanese amid sobs of emotion.
Hugs were tight until she reached the Departure Gate. All of them drifted away in tears of farewell. Waving their hands while Ugik continued to shout, "Thank you PNM!"
The great Wedjangan Roro Jonggrang from Madiun will never be forgotten. Her persistence and her strong mental will always be the main principle in earning a fortune. She is tireless, always smiles, and is always successful in making everyone around her happy. "My era as a woman was not as easy as your era now, Mbak," she said slowly. There is much that women can learn from Ugik, as we, women of the current generation, should be embarrassed if we give up so easily because of all the obstacles. Without Kartini's costume, clad in Roro Jonggrang make-up, Ugik was able to prove the greatness and determination of a woman.
