The quintessential symbol of adulthood: attaining your driver’s license. What might seem mundane to many adults is an exciting rite of passage for lots of teenagers. However, being situated in such a bustling environment poses both benefits and difficulties. The ever-increasing traffic congestion and complicated road systems of Jakarta make for both daunting and formative learning experiences. Feedback asked the JIS upperclassmen for their thoughts on driving: retrieving anecdotes, opinions, and advice for the rest of the high school body.
Navigating Jakarta Streets
Whether it be the infamous traffic jams, motorbikes that unexpectedly slip through gaps, or the complicated, winding roads, driving in Jakarta undoubtedly requires adjustment. A senior respondent explained that the greatest challenge is the unpredictability of motorcycles. “You never know which direction they’ll come from, [regardless of] looking both left and right.”
Another aspect that causes difficulties among new drivers is the informal driving culture. Senior Andrea H. explained that although there are rules on the road, “most people… don’t follow [them].” This is further corroborated by the experiences of junior Shia B., who elaborated that “sometimes, you even get honked at for following the rules or driving at the speed limit.” Thus, through encountering such challenges certain skills are inevitably nurtured: “Learning to drive in Jakarta really sharpens your quickness and awareness.”
Feelings About Driving
Whilst there is no universal motivation for learning to drive, many respondents have expressed that a taste of independence was what fueled their desires. For Andrea H., wanting to step into “a new sense of freedom” allowed her to feel that her life was “moving… forward.” This sentiment was similarly shared by another senior who explained that having increased mobility allows them to “get around conveniently without burdening others.”
On the other hand, several respondents have indicated that they do not currently plan to obtain their licenses. A junior stated that they “do not necessarily trust [themself] with keeping the family car unharmed on Jakarta’s roads.” One might have other priorities too, junior Jae-Eun U. reasoned that he “would rather focus on school and academics until graduation.”
These responses underscore the diverse attitudes about driving as a teenager, serving as a reminder that everyone is entitled to their own individual approach.
Regardless of your level of experience, driving in Jakarta undoubtedly bears a striking resemblance to life. Every day introduces new obstacles and paths to navigate, aiding in our development of both skills and confidence. As you embark on the learning experience, Feedback encourages you to reflect upon the ways you can be aware and cognizant of the roads. Because, as they say, “once you can drive in Jakarta, you can drive anywhere!”
