Arema Blue Village

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The village was painted as part of an urban revitalization program called 'Kampung Tematik' (Thematic Village).

2. 2

   The specific shade of blue used is intended to replicate the branding of the Arema Malang football club.

3. 3

   The village is situated along the banks of the Brantas River, which is the longest river in East Java.

4. 4

   The community-led initiative includes waste management improvements and clean-up efforts for the nearby river corridor.

5. 5

   It serves as a counter-model to the nearby 'Kampung Warna Warni' (Colorful Village), which uses a multi-colored palette.

Overview

Arema Blue Village, or Kampung Biru Arema, is a transformed residential neighborhood in Malang, East Java, featuring houses painted entirely in bright blue. The project was initiated by local authorities and university students to rehabilitate the riverbank settlement and promote tourism. The village color scheme honors Arema FC, the professional football club based in Malang, which uses blue as its primary team color. Walking paths wind through narrow alleys between the densely packed homes that hug the Brantas River embankment. The neighborhood features murals and symbolic decorations related to local football culture. The transformation has successfully converted a formerly neglected slum area into a popular destination for photography and urban exploration.

Insider tips

• Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear as the terrain includes many stairs and steep alleyways.

• Bring a small amount of local currency in small denominations to contribute to local community maintenance funds if requested at entry points.

• Respect the privacy of residents by not peering into windows or entering marked private spaces.