Es Selendang Mayang: A Legendary Betawi Treat Enduring Amidst the Rendy Drinks

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The traditional Betawi drink, Es Selendang Mayang, remains popular and popular even though modern beverages continue to emerge. This dish, made from colorful pudding, brown sugar syrup, and coconut milk sauce, is often found in city corners, including historical areas such as Jakarta's Old Town, as part of efforts to preserve Betawi ancestral culinary traditions.

Different from the modern drinks that are generally sold in stalls or cafes, es selendang mayang is more often found being sold by the seller carrying it on his shoulder. This simple, unpretentious method of selling serves as a unique attraction and a sign that Betawi culinary traditions remain alive within urban society.

The presence of es selendang mayang is also inseparable from various Betawi cultural events. This drink is often a mandatory dish at Betawi Eid celebrations, and is present at various events that highlight local traditions and culture, emphasizing its position as a symbol of the culinary identity of the Betawi people.

In terms of appearance, es selendang mayang offers a unique visual appeal. Layers of red, green, and white pudding are combined with sweet syrup and savory coconut milk, then served with ice, creating a sensation that is both refreshing and filling.

Based on the Betawi Arts and Culture website, one of the traders who consistently sells this drink is Abdul, who has been selling es selendang mayang around Kota Tua since 1998. According to him, the location was chosen strategically because many visitors come to Kota Tua to enjoy the Betawi arts and culture atmosphere, including its culinary delights.

For Abdul, selling selendang mayang is not just about earning a living, but also a form of effort to preserve Betawi culinary delights that are starting to be forgotten. He expresses concern over the proliferation of trendy drinks, which he views as a threat to the survival of traditional beverages like this one. Regarding the price, Abdul set Rp. 5,000 per portion for his Selendang Mayang ice cream. He believes this affordable price belies the drink's profound philosophical value, given its deep historical roots in Betawi culture.

The name Selendang Mayang itself comes from the folk tale of Si Jampang Mayang Sari, with the word "mayang" meaning something beautiful and pretty, while "selendang" refers to the colored pudding layer that resembles a dancer's shawl.

Estimated to have been prepared since the 1940s, the red, yellow, and green colors of this pudding symbolize the influence of Chinese, Malay, and Arabic cultures that have blended into the identity of the Betawi people, making es selendang mayang not only a thirst-quenching drink, but also a dish that is commonly served at wedding parties and even as a snack during the fasting month.