Pejabat Village (Banjarbaru Jamu Center)

Tracing the Spice Trail in Pejabat Village: Banjarbaru's Traditional Jamu Epicenter

South Kalimantan is not only known for the diamond fields of Martapura or the world-renowned deliciousness of Soto Banjar. In the heart of Banjarbaru City, precisely in Loktabat Selatan Village, lies a unique culinary and herbal tourism destination called Kampung Pejabat. Although its name sounds formal, "Pejabat" here is a witty acronym for "Pengolah Jamu Loktabat" (Loktabat Jamu Processors). This destination has transformed from a mere settlement of jamu artisans into a center for preserving the legendary traditional Banjar healing heritage.

#

History and Cultural Roots: From Migration to Identity

The existence of Kampung Pejabat is inseparable from the migration of Javanese people, especially from the Sukoharjo and Solo regions, who brought the tradition of concocting jamu to Kalimantan in the 1970s. Initially, these artisans sold jamu by carrying it around (jamu gendong) throughout Banjarbaru and its surroundings.

Over time, these artisans settled in the same area in Gang Sumba, Loktabat Selatan Village. Their expertise in concocting medicinal spices began to gain widespread attention. Instead of disappearing with the modern era, this community actually strengthened its identity. In 2016, the local government officially designated this area as "Pejabat" Thematic Village. Now, Kampung Pejabat is not just a production site, but a living laboratory for Indonesian herbal culture in the Banjar land.

#

Variety of Signature Jamu and Their Benefits

In Kampung Pejabat, jamu is not just seen as a bitter drink, but as a refreshing artful concoction. There are several signature menus that attract tourists:

1. Beras Kencur Banjarbaru: Unlike common beras kencur, the Kampung Pejabat version has a thicker texture with a sharp yet fresh aroma of kencur. The use of selected roasted rice gives a distinctive nutty flavor.

2. Kunyit Asam Sirih: This concoction is a favorite among women. The blend of freshly grated turmeric with tamarind and added betel leaves creates a balance of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter flavors that act as a natural antiseptic.

3. Pahitan Spesial: Concocted from the spices brotowali, sambiloto, and Kalimantan forest roots. Although very bitter, this jamu is sought after for its benefits in purifying blood and increasing appetite.

4. Jamu Seduh Telur Bebek: For men's stamina, the artisans provide instant jamu mixed with duck egg yolk and authentic Kalimantan forest honey, creating a rich and warming blend.

#

Kitchen Secrets: Raw Materials and Traditional Techniques

The superiority of jamu in Kampung Pejabat lies in their commitment to organic raw materials and very traditional processing techniques. Most ingredients like turmeric, ginger, temu lawak, and kencur are grown by residents in their yards with a concept of a living pharmacy.

Processing Techniques:

The artisans here still maintain manual grating and pounding techniques using stone or wooden mortars. They believe that using electric blenders can alter the raw material temperature and damage the active compounds in the spices. The boiling process is also done using clay pots or thick stainless steel pots to maintain the purity of the taste. The water used comes from clear dug wells, which are naturally filtered to ensure no chlorine odor interferes with the jamu's aroma.

#

Culinary Uniqueness: "Modern Jamu" and Menu Innovation

To attract the interest of the younger generation, Kampung Pejabat has made smart innovations without losing its traditional essence. One of the popular menus is Jamu Ice Cream and Jamu Pudding. They have succeeded in changing the perception of jamu from something old-fashioned to a modern snack.

In addition to drinks, Kampung Pejabat also serves signature Banjar and Javanese side dishes that are hard to find elsewhere. Visitors can enjoy Nasi Jagung (corn rice) or Nasi Tiwul (cassava rice) with side dishes like salted fish and shrimp paste chili while sipping warm jamu in lush bamboo gazebos. The strong rural atmosphere in the middle of the city makes the dining experience here feel very authentic.

#

Figures and Family Heritage

The success of Kampung Pejabat is inseparable from the role of local figures like Bapak Eko Sumardi, who has been the main driver of the village's modernization. Here, the skill of concocting jamu is passed down through generations. Children and grandchildren of the early pioneers are now taking roles in digital marketing and product packaging that is more hygienic and attractive.

Families in Gang Sumba have their own "secret recipes" (often referred to as racikan dapur) that are kept confidential. This is what makes each jamu stall in Kampung Pejabat have a slightly different taste characteristic, giving visitors a reason to always return and try variants from different houses.

#

Cultural Context and the Tradition of Drinking Jamu

In Banjarbaru society, visiting Kampung Pejabat has become a weekly health tradition. There is a unique custom where visitors not only come to drink but also to consult about health complaints. The jamu artisans here have empirical knowledge of the human body's anatomy and potent spice benefits.

The culture of "Cangkrukan" or sitting relaxed while discussing is very evident here. Jamu becomes a social bridge that unites various levels of society, from government officials (fitting its unique name) to the general public. Here, social hierarchy seems to melt away in the warmth of a glass of ginger jamu.

#

Educational Destination and Sustainable Tourism

Now, Kampung Pejabat has developed into an educational destination. Tourists not only come to eat and drink but can also learn how to plant medicinal plants and basic jamu concocting techniques. The clean village environment, filled with herbal-themed murals, and the friendliness of its residents make this place a model for the development of creative economies based on local wisdom in Indonesia.

These preservation efforts are crucial, considering the onslaught of modern chemical medicines. Kampung Pejabat proves that jamu is not just a trade commodity, but a cultural identity that can sustain a community while maintaining the nation's health.

#

Conclusion: Why Visit Kampung Pejabat?

Visiting Kampung Pejabat is a sensory journey. The aroma of spices wafting through the air, the sight of turmeric drying in the sun, and the warm sensation that spreads down your throat as you sip a traditional concoction are experiences not found in modern cafes.

As the jamu center in Banjarbaru, this place is a symbol of food security and self-health. For lovers of legendary culinary, Kampung Pejabat offers more than just taste; it offers stories of the perseverance of migrants, the wisdom of Kalimantan's nature, and the determination to preserve ancestral heritage amidst the strong currents of modernization. If you are in South Kalimantan, take the time to stop by, because one glass of jamu in Kampung Pejabat is a small step in celebrating the richness of Indonesian spices.