Hati-hati di jalan!
Bahasa Indonesia: “Be careful on the way (back)!”
I was curious to see how Melburnians spent their Saturday nights, having fun and merry-making at the start of a weekend. So here I was, strolling down the road of Melbourne at 11.45 pm with no particular destination whatsoever. Saw a few couples walking back to find a bus, some university students had come from a night of dinner and drinks, and some were minding their own business.
A lady unlocked an e-scooter and was about to go. The other shouted, “Tiati di jalan ya, liat kan kanan kiri ya!” (Be careful on your way back ya, look on your right and left!”. I can’t seem to escape from my fellow Indonesians :P
It dawned upon me that “Hati-hati di jalan” is the line we always say that has become a culture we Indonesians say when we wish someone to travel safely. We even abbreviate it to “Titi DJ” — a famous Indonesian diva whose name is colloquially used for this.
It’s an expression to show we care, not in a policing or cruel way, not in a patronising way, but a genuine friendly manner. I never felt so connected with this line having to be a stranger in someone else’s country. Granted, sometimes we say it as a mere goodbye greetings as you’re off to school, work, or even flying overseas. Still, I felt seen, known and cared for — someone made sure you’re alright.
Travel safely sounds dull. It screams a nosy mother who expects you to be home by 9 pm. But as a friend, you simply want to ask them to let you know when they’re home safe and sound. Safety sounds really boring, until it’s not.
Thankful for all my friends who send me back when I’m super drunk and keeping me safe. Despite the possibility of me vomiting in their car 🤠 #SorryAndy
Only inspired when half-tipsy,
Cyndy
PS: Tulus is a male Indonesian singer who understood how much these words had become a culture and recently had a ballad-stricken song, you guessed it right, it’s entitled Hati-hati di Jalan.
