Jakarta's Sunter develops into "Little India" as residents relocate

The Sunter area in North Jakarta is emerging as a burgeoning "Little India," drawing hundreds of residents of Indian and Pakistani descent. This community has largely relocated from central Jakarta neighborhoods such as Pasar Baru, Pintu Air, and Gang Kelinci.

Their move to Sunter was prompted by the increasing congestion and deterioration of their former residential areas, which have become more suitable for commercial activities than for living. Some streets in the old neighborhoods are now impassable for vehicles. Notable figures, like the family of 1970s actor Farouk Afero, have also joined the migration to Sunter.

Local Indian residents believe Sunter's transformation into a "Little India," similar to the well-known district in Singapore, is only a matter of time. While it may not yet match Singapore's scale, due to a larger Indian diaspora there, Sunter is developing its own distinct character.

The area now boasts amenities catering to the community, including the Mustafa supermarket, which offers a variety of Indian products. Several Indian restaurants, with Rasa Sayang being a pioneer, serve authentic cuisine. Shops sell Indian and Pakistani food items, specialty rice like Taj Mahal Rice for diabetics, and various Indian teas such as Taj Mahal Tea and Red Label.

The rich aroma of spices is a hallmark of Indian and Pakistani cuisine, and numerous shops in Sunter provide a wide selection of spices, many imported directly from their countries of origin. The growing population with South Asian ancestry has led to the proliferation of spice shops, particularly near Indian schools like Gandhi Memorial School, Universal School, and Jupilee School.