Depok's own "little PIM"? After visiting The Park Sawangan, I just want to say... Anjay
qponx
2026-03-04
Is The Park Sawangan Depok's answer to Pondok Indah Mall? This spot impresses with a spacious layout, popular brands like H&M and Uniqlo, and fun community events. But this review reveals some shocking truths. Prepare for disastrous restrooms, major safety red flags like a chained exit, and poor service. Before you brave the infamous traffic to get there, read this brutally honest guide for the full picture and some must-know survival tips for your visit.
Girls, who gets it! Living near Depok/Sawangan, trying to find a decent mall to hang out in is seriously so hard! My friends dragged me to The Park Sawangan over the weekend, and I was actually a little surprised when I walked in.
The whole place feels really spacious, and the design is somewhat reminiscent of Pondok Indah Mall 1[1]. The key is that it's not crowded on weekdays, making it super comfy to Nongkrong[2]! I thought a suburban mall would be just so-so, but I didn't expect the brand selection to be so complete. Fast fashion like H&M and Uniqlo[3], Lulu Supermarket for daily necessities, and an XXI cinema[4], it really feels like they're trying to capture all the surrounding middle-class families and young people.
Plus, they're really good at creating a community vibe. It's not just about shopping; they often hold all sorts of events, like lion dances[5], martial arts competitions[6], and even Poundfit fitness classes[7]. It feels like they're putting a lot of effort into managing it. Everything seems pretty Mantap, right?
But... after all the praise, let's get real. The things to complain about at this mall are enough to make my fists clench! 👊
First off, the restrooms! Oh my god, they're a total disaster zone. Dirty and wet, with toilet paper all over the floor, it's a struggle just to find a usable stall[8]. For a mall that calls itself "luxurious," managing the restrooms like this is just unacceptable, right?
What's even more outrageous is that I actually found an emergency exit chained shut[9]?! Hello? The safety awareness... Anjay lah! And then there's the service attitude. Some of the security guards are so 'galak' (fierce), they talk to people like they're starting a fight. I even overheard them saying some very racist things on their radios[10], which completely ruined any good impression I had.
【A Foolproof Survival Guide, Save This Now! 📝】
Honestly, if you live nearby, it's still a good place to kill time. But if you're planning to go, here are a few things you must know:
- 1. Traffic Warning: The roads to get here are insanely congested! If you have plans like a movie, make sure to leave two hours early[11]. A lesson learned the hard way!
- 2. Parking Payment: The parking lot only accepts Flazz/e-money cards and doesn't support e-wallets like Gopay or OVO[12]. For those without a card, prepare in advance so you don't get stuck anxiously at the exit.
- 3. Shopping Route: You're not allowed to take the supermarket trolleys upstairs[13], so it's best to eat at the restaurants upstairs first, then come down to shop, otherwise you'll be running back and forth.
- 4. Not "Work-From-Anywhere" Friendly: Don't expect to use your laptop in the Food court, you won't find a single power outlet[14], not suitable for digital nomads.
- 5. Using the Restroom: emmm... you're on your own. Or just hold it and go to the separate restrooms inside the restaurants. 🤷♀️
- Quiet on weekdays, perfect for a chill Nongkrong [1]. The spacious design even looks like Pondok Indah Mall 1! [2]
- A true one-stop-shop for local families & youth, with H&M, Uniqlo[3], Lulu Supermarket, and an XXI cinema[4].
- More than just shopping, with events like lion dances[5], martial arts contests[6], & Poundfit classes[7]. Strong community vibe.
Similar Articles
Under 50 per person, serving 5.5 million: How good is Indonesia's 'national canteen'?
Curious about Indonesia's wildly popular "national canteen," Sambal Bakar? This spot draws huge crowds with its unbelievably cheap prices and lively atmosphere. The star of the show is its signature Sambal Bakar, served sizzling on a stone plate. While you're there, don't miss the must-try sides like the crispy Telur Berdadang (thick omelet) and crunchy fried chicken skin. It offers incredible value, but be prepared for potential crowds and a bit of a wait during peak hours.
A perfect 5.0 from just 4 reviews? I went to Depok to see if it's a trap
A Depok bakery with a perfect 5.0-star rating from just four reviews sparks curiosity: is it a hidden gem or a trap? Follow along on an investigative trip to August Bakery to uncover the truth. This isn't a typical food review—it's a surprising scouting report that reveals the bakery's true nature without a single bite. Discover a cautionary tale about online ratings and join the call for locals to solve the mystery of whether the bread is actually any good.
What's so special about this Sundanese food under 50k that even Jokowi comes to Nongkrong for?
Discover the Depok Sundanese restaurant so special that even President Jokowi visits for a casual meal! Escape to a charming village setting with private thatched huts over fish ponds. Enjoy delicious signature dishes like Empal Goreng Kremes without breaking the bank, as most meals are under 50k IDR. It’s a family-friendly spot offering a "kingly taste at a commoner's price," but be sure to read the tips for the best visiting experience.
A humble restaurant the President eats at? This indoor pavilion in Depok is something else
Discover Kampung Kecil, a surprisingly charming Sundanese restaurant in Depok that has even hosted the President! Its unique indoor village concept features private gazebos, creating a cozy and intimate dining experience perfect for families and friends. Feast on delicious and affordable signature dishes like the tender Green Chili Duck and savory Grilled Squid. While service can be inconsistent and the drinks are simple, the authentic food and unique atmosphere make it a destination worth visiting for a memorable meal.