BISNISREAL.COM, JAKARTA – Tuesday May 13,2025 The roar of motorcycle engines, a constant soundtrack to Indonesian life, often plays in grim harmony with alarming statistics. Between January and August 5th, 2024, Indonesia’s Traffic Police recorded a staggering 79,220 traffic accidents, leaving a heartbreaking toll of 117,962 individuals injured or deceased. Tragically, motorcycles, the very vehicles that form the backbone of many Indonesians’ mobility, overwhelmingly dominated the accident involvement list with 552,155 units. This stark reality isn’t just about numbers; it reflects a driving culture that sometimes neglects safety, a bitter irony in the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Amidst this disquieting surge in accidents, a beacon of hope has emerged from an unexpected yet meaningful collaboration. Students from the Social Welfare Program at the University of Indonesia (Kesos UI), demonstrating commendable social sensitivity, have joined forces with the ojek online (ojol) community – the frontline of urban mobility and a group particularly vulnerable to road risks. This synergy has given birth to a grassroots movement aptly named “Sajadah,” a poignant acronym meaning “Sabar di Jalan dan Hati-hati” – Patience on the Road and Caution.
The official launch of this movement on Sunday, May 11th, 2027, at the Ojol Mengaji headquarters in Poltangan, Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta, marked a significant moment. This space, usually buzzing with the activity of ojol drivers, transformed into a stage for compassion, where the spirit of mutual support and road safety awareness resonated.
Support has poured in, notably from the inspiring writer and public figure, Kang Maman Suherman. In a widely circulated video message, Kang Maman expressed his deep appreciation for this noble initiative. He frankly described the highway as one of Indonesia’s “biggest killers,” often tragically overlooked. Kang Maman’s endorsement wasn’t mere formality; it underscored the urgency of this movement in saving lives and preventing suffering.
Pelangi Loemongga, the driving force behind the Sajadah Movement, explained that this initiative stems from a profound concern for the persistent and alarming accident statistics. The phenomenal growth in ojol users – soaring from 82 million in 2023 to 88 million in 2024 – further amplified the urgency to act. As more two-wheelers crowd the roads, the potential for risk escalates without a corresponding increase in awareness and caution.
“Sajadah di Aspal” (Sajadah on the Asphalt) is more than just an empty slogan. The movement encompasses a series of concrete actions addressing various aspects of road safety. It begins with education, providing in-depth understanding of the importance of obeying traffic laws and anticipating potential hazards. Practical steps include the installation of safety stickers on ojol vehicles, serving as effective visual reminders for drivers and other road users. The distribution of SNI-standard helmets is a proactive measure to ensure optimal head protection for drivers. Furthermore, a digital campaign leveraging social media is maximizing outreach to a wider audience, especially the digitally savvy younger generation.
Through these structured and ongoing activities, the Kesos UI students and the ojol community aim to instill road safety messages holistically. The use of SNI-standard helmets is being promoted not just as a formality, but as a fundamental necessity. Protective jackets are becoming an additional shield against impact and harsh weather. Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles is emphasized as crucial for preventing chain collisions. Patience on the road, the very essence of the movement’s name, teaches drivers to avoid rushing and prioritize safety above all else.
High hopes rest on the shoulders of “Sajadah di Aspal.” Pelangi Loemongga expressed her strong belief that the movement can significantly increase awareness among ojol drivers, in particular, encouraging them to be more patient and cautious while navigating challenging road conditions. The primary goal, of course, is to reduce the frightening accident rates.
Abayandang (51), a member of the Ojol Mengaji community actively involved in the movement’s socialization, warmly welcomed the “Sajadah” initiative. For him, this kind of education is an oasis amidst the daily risky routine. As an ojol driver who directly experiences the harsh realities of the road every day, Abayandang understands that road safety awareness is not only for their own well-being but also for the safety of their passengers and the loved ones waiting for them at home. This heartfelt statement from someone on the ground reinforces the relevance and urgency of the Sajadah Movement.
More than just a fleeting campaign, “Sajadah di Aspal” is designed to be a sustainable movement throughout 2025. The doors to participation are wide open for the general public who share the same concern for road safety. Support in various forms – be it manpower, ideas, or resources – will be invaluable ammunition to expand the reach and positive impact of this movement.
The collaboration between Kesos UI students and the ojol community in the Sajadah Movement is a powerful example of how care and concrete action from various segments of society can synergize to address complex social issues. This isn’t just about reducing accident numbers; it’s about building a more responsible, respectful, and safety-conscious driving culture. “Sajadah di Aspal” is a symbol of hope, a reminder that amidst the fierce competition on the streets, the values of patience and caution are the fundamental pillars for creating safer and more civilized traffic. Let’s collectively unfurl the “sajadah” of safety across every inch of Indonesia’s roads.
