Indonesian Folklore (Folklor Indonesia): Tales from Nusantara (Archipelago)

The Javan Hawk-eagle and the Clever Mouse Deer: A Tale of Friendship and Survival in the Tropical Forest

Edisi Indonesia: Elang Jawa dan Si Kancil yang Cerdik

A Creative Fable of the The Javan Hawk-eagle

In a dense rainforest on the island of Java, there lived a proud and mighty hawk-eagle named Jawi. His wings stretched wide, and his eyes were as sharp as lightning in the sky. Jawi was known as a skilled hunter, but he also had a slightly arrogant nature, believing he was the strongest among the forest dwellers.

One day, a long drought hit the forest. The rivers began to dry up, leaves fell, and animals struggled to find water. Jawi started to feel thirsty and tired, as the water sources he usually relied on were becoming scarce. He flew far and wide but found nothing.

While resting on the branch of a large tree, Jawi looked down and saw a small mouse deer named Kanca hopping around nimbly. Despite his small size, Kanca was known for his extraordinary intelligence.

"Hey, Kanca! What are you doing here? Aren't you thirsty?" Jawi asked in a slightly weary voice.

Kanca smiled and replied, "I may be small, Jawi, but I know how to survive in difficult times like this. I've found a secret place full of fresh water."

Jawi furrowed his brow and looked at Kanca doubtfully. "How could you possibly find water in times like this? I've flown as far as my eyes can see and found nothing."

Kanca chuckled softly. "You know, Jawi, not all water sources can be found from the sky. Sometimes we need to look closely and use our cleverness."

Though still skeptical, Jawi's dry throat made him willing to try. "Alright, show me this place, Kanca. But if you're wasting my time, I won't forgive you!"

Kanca nimbly hopped between the tree roots, guiding Jawi through a hidden path in the forest. After a long walk, they arrived at a rock crevice covered with bushes.

"Here, Jawi. Inside this crevice, there's a small spring hidden from the eyes of other animals," Kanca said, pointing inside.

Jawi, who had doubted Kanca at first, was astonished. Sure enough, inside the rock crevice was a clear and refreshing water source. In awe, Jawi said, "I must admit, Kanca, you are indeed clever. If I hadn't listened to you, I might have remained thirsty."

Kanca smiled wisely, "Every creature has its own strengths, Jawi. You have strength and sharpness, but I have cleverness and patience. Sometimes we need to work together to survive."

From that day on, Jawi and Kanca became good friends. They learned to share and cooperate in facing difficult times. Jawi no longer underestimated the intelligence of other animals, and Kanca knew that with Jawi's help, they could maintain balance in the forest.

Moral of the Story: Cooperation and mutual trust are the keys to overcoming difficulties. Strength and cleverness become more meaningful when used together.

The Mystical Legend of the Ciliwung River: Harmony Between History, Myth, and Modern Life

Edisi Indonesia: Legenda Mistis Sungai Ciliwung

Beneath the Sempur Bridge, the flow of the Ciliwung River continues like a lifeline, bringing sustenance to the city of Bogor. However, for residents who have long lived along its banks, the place holds many mystical tales passed down through generations.

One afternoon, under the lush kapok tree standing proudly by the river, two residents, Mr. Rahmat and Andi, chatted casually while fishing.

Mr. Rahmat: "Back when I was a child, every time I heard the sound of gamelan at night, I’d run straight home. My late father used to say it was a sign that guardians were nearby."

Andi: (startled) "Gamelan? Seriously, sir? I've only heard the stories, but I’ve never heard it myself."

Mr. Rahmat: (smiling slightly) "Yes, Andi. But don’t misunderstand. The guardians here aren’t always malicious. They just ensure this place is respected."

Andi nodded while reeling in his fishing line. "So, that’s why the older residents often say we shouldn’t speak or act carelessly around here?"

Mr. Rahmat: "Exactly. This place belongs not only to us who can see but also to those unseen. That’s why good manners are important."

The History Behind the Myth

The story continued about the large rock said to have been a meditation site for Pajajaran kings. Although the rock is no longer visible, its tale lives on in the memories of the locals.

Mrs. Siti, an elderly woman living nearby, often reminds children playing in the area.

Mrs. Siti: "Kids, be careful when playing near the river. Don’t step over the stones or speak rudely. This is the place of our ancestors, where King Siliwangi once meditated. If you show respect, you’ll also be protected."

The children only nodded, but the next day, they continued to play cheerfully while ensuring they followed Mrs. Siti’s advice.

Harmony Between the Past and Present

Today, with lighting installed under the bridge, the eerie atmosphere of the place has faded. However, residents like Mr. Rahmat and Mrs. Siti still remind the younger generation to honor the history.

Mr. Rahmat: "This Ciliwung isn’t just an ordinary river. It connects us to the past and teaches us about living harmoniously with nature."

Andi smiled as he gazed at the slowly flowing water. "Sir, in that case, it’s our job to keep this story alive, so our children and grandchildren understand the importance of respecting this heritage."

Mr. Rahmat: "That’s right, Andi. Respect nature, honor history, and don’t forget to uphold good manners. That’s what makes our Bogor special."

This story teaches us the importance of maintaining harmony between humans, nature, and history. The Ciliwung River is not just a stream of water but also a reflection of ancestral heritage that must be preserved with reverence and responsibility.