TIMES AUSTRALIA, PROBOLINGGO – As dawn breaks over the misty hills of Krucil, Probolinggo, the sound of footsteps echoes along the dirt paths of Bermi Village. Women in colorful scarves balance jerry-cans of fresh milk on their heads, their pace steady, their movements graceful. They're doing Sunggi Susu.

Sunggi Susu is a Javanese term meaning carrying milk on the head. For decades, it has been part of daily life for dairy farmers in the highlands of Probolinggo, where milk is both livelihood and identity.

“Sunggi Susu is not just milk delivery. It’s our story—our strength as women, our promise to keep quality in every drop,” said Niko, a member of the management at KUD Argopuro (a village cooperative) who is also involved in organizing the Seven Lakes Festival in Probolinggo.

From Routine to Ritual

The tradition began in the 1980s, when dairy cooperatives were first formed in the area. Without vehicles, women would walk from the barns to collection points, sometimes for miles, balancing containers of milk while chatting and laughing along the way.

Over time, what started as necessity grew into a symbol of resilience, grace, and the deep communal bonds of Bermi’s women farmers. Now, this humble act of daily work is stepping into the spotlight.

A New Stage at the Seven Lakes Festival

From November 7 to 16, 2025, the Seven Lakes Festival in Probolinggo will feature Sunggi Susu as a cultural highlight. For the first time, it becomes an official contest: the Sunggi Susu Race—where participants compete to carry milk containers on their heads across a scenic route.

Organizers hope the event will do more than entertain. It aims to honor the perseverance of rural women, preserve local heritage, and boost cultural tourism in East Java. “We want to celebrate the spirit of these farmers and share their story with the world,” Niko added.

Where Culture Meets Celebration

The Seven Lakes Festival itself is an immersive experience blending nature, culture, and adventure.

Held around Ranu Segaran in the Tiris sub-district, the festival features a floating stage on the lake, a fashion festival on the water, and performances inspired by Dewi Rengganis, a legendary local figure. And now, the Sunggi Susu Race, as its new cultural icon.

With these elements combined, Probolinggo is positioning itself as one of East Java’s rising cultural destinations—where authenticity meets creativity.

Beyond Milk and Motion

For the women of Krucil, the race is more than a spectacle. It’s recognition. A moment when their quiet morning journeys—carrying milk through misty paths—are finally seen as art, endurance, and pride.

And as the crowd gathers around Ranu Segaran, the rhythmic steps of these women during the Sunggi Susu remind everyone that true beauty often comes from everyday strength—balanced perfectly, one step at a time. (*)