INDONESIA: Indonesians dedicate their lives to Yogyakarta's royal family despite making as little as 50 U.S. cents a month
- 00:00:51
- ITN Source
INDONESIA: Indonesians dedicate their lives to Yogyakarta's royal family despite making as little as 50 U.S. cents a month
The royal servants of Yogyakarta province's Sultanate in Indonesia are fully devoted to their profession, despite only earning a meagre income. Most work for as little as 5,000 Rupiahs (50 U.S. cents) a month, yet many of the servants say money is not an issue when they are granted an opportunity to serve Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, the hereditary King and elected governor of the Yogyakarta Special Region. The servants say they are honoured while others believe they were blessed in another life for a chance to offer their sacrifice and devotion serving the Sultan. "I am very glad to be a royal servant. For example, one day I may have to go to the palace but for some reason I may not be able to go and that will make me feel very sad and disappointed, because for me serving the Sultan's family is very important," says royal servant Krido Mardowo, who plays the gamelan for the royal family. Some work in the servant quarters of the palace, organising administrative duties for the Sultanate, while others guard the kingdom gates and keep the palace clean and safe. State officers are not granted retirement plans, but that does not stop former state officer Kusumosucipto from serving the royal family. He continued his services to the Sultan for free even after his retirement. He says the rewards go far beyond any possible monetary value and that the payment lies in the job's honour. "The important thing is to become the royal servant to search for a peaceful life under the rule of the Yogyakarta Sultan," he says. Hundreds of potential candidates flock to Yogyakarta in the hopes of becoming a royal servant. Yet the selection process is very competitive - one must pass an exam, which is administered sporadically, and work without pay for several years under probation. The state of Yogyakarta was granted special status when Indonesia was formed. Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X was elected governor of the province in 1998 by the province's assembly.
ITN Source | July 28, 2007
