Gazing at the Patung Elang Salak, do you know its story? This monument depicts an eagle clutching a salak fruit. It is a symbol of Jakarta’s identity. Many think Monas is Jakarta’s mascot. But it’s actually the Elang Bondol and Salak Condet.
The Patung Elang Salak embodies Jakarta’s official mascots. They were chosen to promote awareness. They also encourage responsibility in preserving Jakarta’s unique fauna and culture.
In 1989, the Governor of Jakarta declared them the city’s mascots. This was stated in Decree number 1796. The Elang Bondol and Salak Condet were nearly extinct then.
Let’s start with the Elang Bondol. The Elang Bondol is also called Brahminy Kite. It is a protected species. The laws safeguard it. Its numbers dwindled. They are now mostly in the Thousand Islands. You might spot them near Pramuka Island.
People call it Elang Bondol because of its white head. The thin feathers make it look almost bald. “Bondol” means bald in Javanese. The Elang Bondol has sharp vision. It is five times better than a human’s. It also has strong flight. It symbolizes Jakarta’s agility and spirit.
Although found in other regions, it is unique. It stands for Jakarta’s resilience and dynamism. The Elang Bondol embodies strength and leadership.
Now, consider the Salak Condet. It is a rare fruit. It grows in Condet, East Jakarta. Condet’s soil was fertile once. It was perfect for farming. The area became a cultural reserve.
The Salak Condet has thick flesh. It is yellowish and not watery. This gives it a unique taste. Its skin is thin and easy to peel.
Salak Condet farms are shrinking. They are becoming residential areas. This Jakarta fruit is becoming rare. Efforts have been made to preserve it. In 1975, Condet was named a cultural reserve. The Salak Condet was also protected.
Its distinct taste is unique. The Betawi people have cultural stories about it. The Salak Condet became a mascot of Jakarta. This promoted the city’s history.
The Patung Elang Salak that you see before you is a reminder. It connects Jakarta’s dynamism. It also acknowledges the need to preserve its natural and cultural heritage.