KBRN, Yogyakarta: Yogyakarta's well-known shopping and dining spot, Teras Malioboro 2, has relocated to Ketandan, providing a more spacious and comfortable environment for visitors.

Open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, the new Teras Malioboro 2 on Jalan Ketandan Kulon, Ngupasan Village, Gondomanan Subdistrict, Yogyakarta, features a distinctive architectural style.

The site embraces a strong Chinatown theme, reflected in its architectural details that evoke a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

A spacious pedestrian area, anchored by a central fountain, is framed by multi-story buildings with design elements reminiscent of Chinese architecture, creating a distinct and visually engaging ambiance unlike its previous location.

The relocation to Ketandan, which occurred on January 14, 2025, promises a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for shoppers and food enthusiasts.

The blend of the new, larger space and the apparent Pecinan (Chinatown) aesthetic creates a fresh and appealing destination in Yogyakarta, bustling with people and activity around the central water feature.

Within the bustling aisles of Teras Malioboro 2, customers browsed and purchased various fashion items. (Photo: RRI English/Diva Rifdah Rizkia Puspitaningnala)

Titis Ernawati, a clothing product vendor, has been conducting her business since 1998, initially on the pedestrian area along the legendary Jl. Malioboro, in front of Teguh hardware store.

After a brief tenure at the former Teras Malioboro 2 near Grand Inna Malioboro Hotel starting in 2022, she relocated to the newly established Teras Malioboro 2 in early 2025, immersing herself in the vibrant energy of fellow merchants in the revitalized space.

"My personal opinion is that we just use what's available. The former location was only temporary. This new location is permanent. I hope things will be better in the future. It's very comfortable here," Titis said recently.

She noted that both the old and new Teras Malioboro 2 locations accommodate approximately the same number of kiosks, totaling 1,041. They offer a diverse array of handicrafts, clothing, culinary delights, and souvenirs, contributes to the lively and bustling atmosphere of the marketplace.

"When I sold along the Malioboro pedestrian area, most tourists would simply pass by. But here, success depends on how well we promote our goods, as visitors come with a real intent to shop," Titis explained.

She noted that customer visits have steadily increased, especially during holidays, with more shoppers making purchases at the new location. "The building's architecture is nicer, and the fountain adds to its appeal, making it more attractive. I hope demand for our merchandise continues to grow," she said.

The food court at the new location of Teras Malioboro 2 features numerous lesehan-style stalls (customers typically sit on the mats to eat), bustling with patrons enjoying a variety of Indonesian dishes and beverages. (Photo: RRI English/Diva Rifdah Rizkia Puspitaningnala)

Teras Malioboro 2 offers two access points, one from Jalan Ketandan and another from Jalan Beskalan. Both areas now support transactions via QRIS and bank transfers, providing greater convenience for shoppers.

The facilities available include prayer rooms, electricity access, dining areas, seating for relaxation, restrooms, a clinic, an ATM center, and a multi-functional space such as an amphitheater, all thoughtfully designed to support both economic and cultural activities within the area.

Each vendor at Teras Malioboro 2 is provided with a stall measuring 100x120 cm and a storage cabinet of 100x70 cm for their merchandise.

The featured Chinatown design aligns with Ketandan's historical significance as Yogyakarta's Chinatown and strategically positioned along the city's philosophical axis to attract tourists and bolster local commerce.

Complementing the site, the Beskalan entrance embraces an Indische (Dutch East Indies colonial) theme, similar to Teras Malioboro 1, adding diverse architectural nuances to the overall area.

Open daily, these revamped spaces offer a blend of modern amenities and distinct cultural aesthetics, creating a vibrant and accommodating atmosphere for visitors and traders alike.

The courtyard of Teras Malioboro 2 is alive with visitors from diverse regions, smoothly finding their way through the space with the aid of well-placed directional signs guiding them to various sections. (Photo: RRI English/Diva Rifdah Rizkia Puspitaningnala)

Nadia, a visitor from Surakarta, Central Java, mentioned that she was exploring Yogyakarta with a friend, curious to see the new Teras Malioboro 2 and also intending to do some shopping.

Her presence, along with other visitors drawn by curiosity and the allure of shopping, contributed to the lively and exploratory atmosphere of the revamped destination.

"This is our first time here. We happen want to buy daster," said Nadia, referring to loose-fitting dresses for women, often worn at home for comfort.

She said the place is nice and well-organized, with directional signs and nameplates for each area, making it easy for visitors to find things. "The items sold are varied, the prices are negotiable, and the place is clean. We, visitors, feel comfortable," Nadia concluded. ***