Malang

The story behind Malang's famous colourful village is one of my favourites! 

In 2016, Jodipan was a riverside community in Malang that was quite literally on the brink of disappearing. It was considered one of the worst slums in the area. The houses were gray and decaying, the riverbank was heavily polluted, and the city government had already marked the entire area for demolition. Eviction notices were being printed, and the residents were facing an uncertain future where their homes would be leveled to clear the riverbank.

Enter our superheroes: eight communications students at the local university who needed a final project. They looked at the slum and saw a canvas rather than a lost cause. Taking inspiration from the colorful favelas in Rio de Janeiro, they pitched their idea to a local paint company to donate several tons of supplies. Their pitch was simple: if they made the village so vibrant that people couldn't look away, the government might find it harder to tear it down.

The transformation was a community effort that involved everyone from local artists to the Indonesian Air Force and the residents themselves. They painted every roof, wall, and walkway in neon yellows, electric blues, and hot pinks. Almost overnight, Jodipan went from a "polluted slum" to a global curiosity. As travelers began stopping on the bridge to take photos, the demolition plans were scrapped in favor of preservation. Today, the entrance fees paid by visitors go directly into waste management and community upkeep, turning a neighborhood once defined by its struggle for survival into a permanent, self-sustaining landmark.

It was truly inspiring walking around this area and imagining how amazing this transformation would have been for the residents to witness. I wish projects like this were more prevalent in the world. 

Other than the colourful village of Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan, there is also the blue village where every building int he town is painted a shade of blue. The city of Malang itself is such an awesome place filled with so many kind locals and hidden gems. There isn't too much to do, but if you go searching for awesome experiences, you'll find an abundance. 

Just don't get hit by a moped!!! (Watch our YouTube video to see that debacle!)