(JP/P.J. Leo)

Pollution and congestion may be among the biggest problems for people who live in the capital city, but these two challenges do not bother amateur craftsmen and do-it-yourself (DIY) lovers who will brave the thronged streets to find the materials they need to complete their work.

Here are five havens that have become destinations for local hobbyists. From textiles to paper and tools, these places have it all.

Glodok

Besides being famous for its culinary delights and electronics shops, Glodok is also known for its Imlek (Lunar New Year) merchandise. Some shops are dedicated to selling various Chinese accessories and wedding souvenirs that can enliven your craft work.

Many shops also sell tools for DIY enthusiasts.

Glodok refers to not just one market but a vast area of different markets and shops. Ride the Transjakarta and get off at the Glodok stop, but you should allocate an entire day to explore all the shops.

Mayestik

Mayestik Market in South Jakarta is usually among the most crowded markets in the capital ahead of the Idul Fitri holiday. This is when people looking to make new clothes throng the market, which is known for textiles, tailors, beads and sequins.

The market is also popular among brides-to-be looking for kebaya (traditional lace and chiffon blouses) and batik ahead of the big day.

Textile traders in this area, including many of Indian descent, generally pass their businesses down from one generation to another.

Established in 1956, Mayestik was previously famous for its medicine shops. In 1981, the upgraded 6,500-square-meter Mayestik Market was opened and garment vendors began to flourish.

The market underwent a major renovation in 2012 as it strived to transform its hot and dirty image into that of a bright modern shopping center. It now comprises seven air-conditioned floors.

Despite its modern look, many traders still maintain the tradition of haggling.

Asemka Market

Located in Pinangsia, West Jakarta, Asemka Market has built a reputation as a center for wholesale accessories, the vast variety of which could blow your mind. It also boasts birthday packages for children, sewing machines, toys and smaller stuff such as socks.

Meiria Dhiana, a crafter who specializes in producing handmade scrapbooks and paper crafts, says she likes to go to Asemka to hunt for various kinds of paper.

'My favorite spot is on Jl. Toko Tiga. There are many paper shops along the street. I also love to look for inspiration from visiting shops that sell ribbons and birthday presents on the street,' she told The Jakarta Post over the phone on Thursday.

Dhiana said scrapbooks might be widely available in bookstores, but they usually came at relatively high prices. She said modifying scrapbooks by using materials that could be easily found in the market or at home was a satisfying activity for her as it could inspire other people to do so.

Asemka Market is within walking distance of Glodok Transjakarta stop and Jakarta Kota station. Taking an ojek, a motorcycle taxi, is also fun for those with an adventurous streak. If you travel by private car you'd better come early in the morning, say around 9 a.m., to avoid chronic congestion.

Cikini Gold Center

Need cute boxes or beautiful wrapping? Go to the Cikini Gold Center. Dozens of gift wrapping and accessory traders used to sell their wares under Cikini Station in Central Jakarta until they were relocated to this new market, which was officially opened by then active governor Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo only last month.

'We all now occupy the second floor of Cikini Gold Center,' Vanita of the renowned Toko Ibu Sri told the Post.

The gift-wrapping service providers and accessory traders in Cikini have become an icon in the capital city. Locals say the giftwrapping service began at the station in the 1970s.

Hardware supermarkets

ACE Hardware, Best Pongs Home Center and Rumah Kita are among the better known suppliers of household appliances and tools. They sell a wide range of equipment from basic items such as scissors and hammers right up to power tools, and almost anything an amateur craftsman or DIY fan could need.

One can find these hardware supermarkets at many shopping centers in greater Jakarta.

The biggest, ACE Hardware, has over 50 outlets in greater Jakarta and Bogor, mostly inside shopping malls like Grand Indonesia in Central Jakarta, Gandaria City in South Jakarta or Living World in Alam Sutra in Serpong, South Tangerang. ' JP

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