A neighbourhood so layered that it is almost impossible to define without sounding like something is still missing. And this goes with other kampungs too. It is where neighbours are deeply tight-knit—like "knows-your-uncle's-birthday-by-heart" tight. Neighbours in Plampitan know each other's lives, do things together, share meals, and lean into a mostly harmonious vibe (though nobody's immune to the occasional conflict). They love to hang out, chat for hours, swap stories (and gossip), and generally operate in a web of relationships that is messy, warm, and a little chaotic but it works for them in the best possible way. At the entrance to my alleyway, there is a gazebo that has seen countless seasons of kampung life. This is where neighbours gather to chat, sip tea, and catch up on the latest news (or gossip, depending on who you ask). By day, it's where people usually buy breakfast from a mobile food stall, and sometimes older folks spin tales about "how things used to be" to anyone who'll listen. By evening, it transforms into a lively hub, with everyone from teenagers scrolling on their phones to tired parents taking a breather after a long day.
It can only be imperfectly described as: tightly-woven-close-knit-tangled-web-of-everyone-in-everyone-else's-business-somehow-knows-about-each-other's-lives-and-family-history-down-to-one's-pet-kind-of-place-do-things-together-hang-out-all-the-time-have-dinner-with-neighbours-who-might-also-be-cousins-sort-of-vibe-loves-to-gossip-but-also-really-looks-out-for-one-another-like-family-share-stories-sometimes-getting-into-drama-here-and-there-with-some-friendly-rivalries-but-nothing-a-good-laugh-can't-fix-gossipy-in-a-fun-mostly-not-malicious-way-has-unspoken-rules-with-a-splash-of-chaotic-individuality-all-rolled-up-into-a-community-that-has-its-own-special-brand-of-chaos-but-somehow-it-all-works-together-with-all-sorts-of-web-of-relationships-that's-really-difficult-to-explain-kind-of-community-spirit.
Getting lost in Kampung Plampitan: A journey through time & culture
Tucked away in Surabaya, Indonesia, lies Kampung Plampitan, a hidden gem woven with history and culture. Once a thriving mat-making centre, this kampung holds secrets of the past.
Named after the lampit craftsmen who woven rattan mats, Plampitan Village whispers tales of its rich heritage. As you wander through its streets, you'll discover:
- The Birthplace of Roeslan Abdul Gani, a national hero
- The house of Achmad Jaiz, a fearless fighter
- A historic mosque where influential figures like KH Ahmad Dahlan preached
This kampung was more than just a workplace; it was a hub for revolutionaries, including Bung Karno and Doel Arnowo.
Step into Plampitan Village and unravel its threads of history, culture, and resilience.


Where Heritage Meets Humanity
In Kampung Plampitan, the past isn't just a relic; it's a living, breathing entity that informs every aspect of life. The artisans, though no longer weaving mats, carry on the tradition of craftsmanship, infusing every detail with love and dedication. Residents proudly preserve their cultural heritage, from the delicate art of batik-making to the rhythmic beats of traditional Javanese music.
1. Tradition is not static; it's a dynamic, evolving force.
2. Community is the backbone of cultural preservation.
3. The past informs the present, but doesn't define it.
A Community That Defies Time
Kampung Plampitan's true magic lies in its people. Beyond its historic landmarks and cultural significance, Plampitan Village is alive with the stories of its people.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern Surabaya, this community remains steadfast in their commitment to tradition, to each other, and to the kampung's enduring spirit.
The neighbourhood, with their warm smiles and open hearts, welcome strangers into their community, sharing stories of struggle and triumph.
In Plampitan, people are the threads that bind history, culture, and tradition. Their resilience and spirit have transformed this once-thriving mat-making center into a vibrant, living testament to Indonesia's rich heritage.