Film Dokumenter "MASIH TERAPUNG?"

Summary

This video script provides an insightful look into the fading tradition of the Floating Market in Muara Kuin, Banjarmasin. Through the eyes of Ikhsan, a young vegetable seller, we learn about the rich history of river-based trading and how it has been affected by modern land-based transportation and urban development. The story delves into the lives of local traders like Ikhsan, his grandfather, Acil Suasa, and Paman Pahrul, highlighting their struggles to keep the market alive amidst societal changes, economic challenges, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The narrative reflects a deep connection to the culture and traditions of the area, with a sense of urgency to preserve this cultural heritage.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Floating Market culture is deeply rooted in the riverine way of life, where large boats distribute goods to smaller boats, which then serve the riverside communities.
• 😀 The rise of land transportation has led to a decline in the Floating Market's prominence, as more people transition to land-based commerce.
• 😀 Ikhsan, a 26-year-old photographer and vegetable trader, reflects on his dual life as a photographer and a vegetable vendor at the Muara Kuin Floating Market.
• 😀 Ikhsan’s grandfather, Fahruliansyah, played a key role in sustaining the family’s business at the Floating Market for over 20 years, leaving a legacy and a message to continue the trade after his passing.
• 😀 The barter system is still alive in the Floating Market, offering a unique perspective on trade where goods are exchanged without money, teaching a lesson in sincerity and mutual trust.
• 😀 Despite being the youngest vendor, Ikhsan has spent several years working at the Floating Market, witnessing its gradual decline due to urbanization and lack of new traders.
• 😀 The Floating Market's future is uncertain, and the ongoing development on land and the lack of new generations taking over the trade are major factors threatening its survival.
• 😀 The market's decline was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with fewer visitors coming from other cities and the decrease in market activity leading to concerns about its future.
• 😀 The ‘bacucuk’ cultural tradition, which involves trading and bartering between the boats, has nearly disappeared as the activity on the river has reduced.
• 😀 Despite these challenges, some vendors, like Acil Suasa and Paman Pahrul, continue to hold onto their ties to the Floating Market, finding creative ways to adapt, including bringing their boats to land and adjusting their trade methods.

Q & A

What is the cultural significance of Pasar Terapung (Floating Market)?

Pasar Terapung represents a long-standing tradition rooted in the river-based culture of the Banjar people. Historically, large boats distributed goods to smaller boats, which then entered smaller rivers to serve the needs of people living along the banks of the river. This practice reflected a close relationship between the community and the river.

How has modern transportation affected Pasar Terapung?

Modern land transportation has significantly impacted Pasar Terapung, as people who once sold goods on the river have shifted to land-based markets. This has led to a decline in the floating market's vitality, with fewer vendors and activities.

How does Ikhsan describe his work in photography and as a vegetable trader?

Ikhsan describes his work as a photographer as fun and rewarding, though he focuses more on sharing his experiences as a vegetable trader at Pasar Terapung. He has been trading vegetables since he was 18 and sees it as a family tradition handed down from his grandfather.

What does Ikhsan’s grandfather’s legacy mean to him?

Ikhsan’s grandfather, Fahruliansyah, was a long-time vendor at Pasar Terapung, and before passing away, he urged Ikhsan to continue the family tradition of trading at the market. This legacy is something Ikhsan holds dear and continues to uphold.

What role does barter play in the market according to Ikhsan?

Ikhsan highlights barter as an important part of the market's traditional system of exchange, where goods are traded without involving money. This reflects the concept of ikhlas, or selflessness, in which people exchange without expectation of monetary profit.

What challenges does Pasar Terapung face today?

Pasar Terapung faces several challenges, including the rapid development of land-based infrastructure, a lack of younger generations continuing the trade, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These factors have caused the market's decline and reduced the number of active traders.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected Pasar Terapung?

The pandemic has further exacerbated the decline of Pasar Terapung. With fewer visitors from outside the region, traders like Paman Pahrul have struggled to maintain their businesses. This has led to the adaptation of new methods, such as taking their goods to land, in order to survive the economic hardships caused by the pandemic.

What is the 'bacucuk' tradition, and how has it changed?

The 'bacucuk' tradition refers to the act of exchanging goods or bartering between traders and customers on the river. This tradition has become rarer in recent times due to the decreasing activity in the river and the declining number of traders in Pasar Terapung.

What is the significance of Paman Pahrul's actions during the pandemic?

Paman Pahrul’s decision to move his boat onto land and sell his goods there during the pandemic highlights the adaptation of traders to the changing conditions. He also worked on creating miniatures to keep himself occupied and attract customers. His actions reflect the resilience of vendors attempting to survive difficult times.

What does Ikhsan believe about the future of Pasar Terapung?

Ikhsan expresses concern about the future of Pasar Terapung, fearing it may soon be forgotten. However, he remains hopeful that the remaining traders still have a strong attachment to the market and will continue their efforts to keep the tradition alive, despite the challenges they face.