Indonesia is rich in cultural diversity, with unique traditions found in every region. Beyond its delicious local cuisines, many traditional games have also been passed down through generations and are still preserved in some communities today.
However, as time goes on and technology continues to advance, these traditional games are slowly being forgotten.
To bring back the joy and nostalgia of playing Indonesia’s traditional games, let’s take a look at some of the most beloved ones below!
Indonesian Traditional Good Games to Play
If you remember the old days, most of the traditional games were played outdoors and encouraged kids to stay active. Curious to know what they are? Check them out here!
1. Layangan (Kites)
The creation of a children's song entitled “Layang-Layang” is not without reason. Yes, this traditional game is quite popular in Indonesia, even today, it is still favored by various groups, from children to adults.
The “layangan” or kite is made out of paper, plastic, or a cloth sheet with a frame that is flown using a rope in the field. It is called “layangan” because this object can float (melayang) with the help of the wind.
The most fun in this game, when there is a broken kite, then the children try to chase it. This memory is quite reminiscent of your childhood, isn't it?
2. Cublak-Cublak Suweng
This particular game is probably more popular with girls. Cublak-cublak suweng is a traditional Indonesian game originating from Central Java.
The rules are simple yet fun. One player bends down, faces the ground, and becomes the "guesser."
Meanwhile, the other players place their hands on the back of the bent player and begin passing a small pebble around while singing the traditional Cublak-Cublak Suweng song. At the end of the song, the guesser must figure out who is hiding the pebble.
3. Bekel Ball
Bekel ball is one of the good games to play, especially among teenage girls. While it may look simple at first glance, it requires a good amount of skill and coordination.
To play this game, you will need a bekel ball (a rubber ball, the size can be adjusted) and six small metal or plastic pieces, often referred to as the “bekel.”
The game is played in levels, with increasing difficulty as you go. The player who can complete the most levels, or who stays in the game the longest, wins!
4. Gundu
Gundu is a traditional game called marbles. Well, the way to play gundu itself is quite easy, just by flicking your marbles to the opponent's marbles.
If you manage to hit the opponent's marbles, then the marbles will be yours. That being said, Gundu can be one of the good games to play in a crowd.
5. Congklak
Congklak is an example of a traditional Indonesian game that is quite famous throughout the region. This game is one of Indonesia's cultural identities.
Congklak is played using clam shells, also known as congklak seeds, and a board with 16 holes.
The game is limited to two people only, where if one person manages to get the most seeds in their hole, they will win.
6. Rubber Rope Jumping
You’ve probably tried some of the traditional games that have been mentioned. Now, how about rubber rope jumping?
This fun game is usually played in groups, with two people assigned to hold the rubber rope while others take turns jumping.
Rubber rope jumping is also played on several levels. Also, the one who successfully clears the highest level without failing is the champion!
7. Egrang
Egrang is a traditional game that originates from Jakarta. Unlike other games, not everyone can easily play this one, as it takes practice and skill.
Egrang looks like two long wooden sticks with footrests placed partway up. Players stand on the footrests and walk while balancing on the sticks.
If you have a good sense of balance, this game is worth trying! But for beginners, it is better to be accompanied by someone experienced to avoid falls and injuries.
8. Gobak Sodor
Gobak sodor is also one of the good games to play by elementary school children during break time.
First of all, 2 groups will be divided, where each group must guard their fort.
If one group manages to get to the opponent's fort, it can be said to win. However, fast movement is required, because if the opponent hits one of the people, then they will lose.
9. Engklek
From the past until now, engklek is one of the traditional games that is still often played.
Although more popular among women, it can also be played by men. This game can be played by two or more people, but generally a maximum of 5 people.
You just need to draw squares on the floor using chalk, or whatever is better, and can be erased again. It will be easier if drawn on a flat surface.
There are nine squares, starting with three vertical squares, followed by three horizontal squares, and then two more vertical squares at the top.
Each player will then jump over the boxes while throwing stones in turn. If a player falls, they must mark the last box with a stone, and then the game is continued by the next player.
10. Dam-Daman
This traditional Indonesian game is quite similar to chess, but with much simpler rules.
This game uses a tool called ‘dam’ or can also utilize small stones.
In the dam-daman game, each dam or stone can only move along a line forward, backward, sideways, or diagonally.
To eat your opponent's stone, you only need to jump over it. If the opponent does not take the stone when the opportunity arises, they will be penalized with a dam, and the opponent can take 3 of the opponent's stones.
The game will end when one player takes all the stones from the opponent.
11. Gangsing
This traditional game is more commonly played by boys and uses a wooden tool shaped somewhat like a large red onion, with a distinctive bulge at the top.
To play this game, wrap a rope, often made from tree bark, around the bulge, then throw the gangsing (spinning top) with force and precision. The goal is to make it spin smoothly and for as long as possible. Every child usually develops their own special technique to master the spin.
Gangsing is also often played in competitions, where the winner is the one whose top spins the longest without veering off course.
So, do you still remember, or maybe still play, some of those traditional games above?
Although it looks simple, in fact, traditional Indonesian games are quite fun to play and can unite friendships!
Let's get nostalgic and invite your friends to play together. However, because some of these games require energy, don't forget to always provide water.
AQUA can be one of your choices to accompany your playing activities. AQUA is mineral water that comes from 100% Indonesian mountain water, so that its quality and purity are maintained.
Just prepare AQUA 600ml packaging to accompany you and your friends to play the traditional game. This way, you don't have to be confused if you feel thirsty in the middle of the game. Make sure to #AQUADULU whatever your activities are!
