For many foreign tourists, Indonesia is a treasure trove of surprises, from its bustling cities to its rich cultural heritage. But sometimes it is the smallest details that create the biggest culture shocks. A recent video by @handy_hans_ captured one such moment when he found himself amused by an unusual tool used at Indonesian toll gates.
In the clip, he is seen riding in a car when the driver stops at the toll gate, rolls down the window, and pulls out a long stick-like device to make the payment. The tourist admitted he was caught off guard by the sight.
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“Unusual way to pay the toll in Indonesia 🇮🇩
An extension card holder to pay at the tollbooth more easily – and maybe also a flyswatter?
An unusual quirk I witnessed, but tbh very smart – I’m not sure if this is a thing elsewhere…
Indonesia is also building a great train network, which is very impressive, and another great way to move around!” he wrote in his post.
The light-hearted observation quickly sparked online discussion, with many locals and expatriates chiming in. One comment even traced the origin of the device back to an everyday household item.
“The history of this device is actually from an actual fly swat! So around 2008–2011 (forgot the exact year), someone posted a photo that they tie their card to a fly swat. After that, this tool was suddenly crafted, went viral, and sold everywhere! Lol,” a user wrote.
Others, however, admitted they had never encountered it despite living in Indonesia for years.
“I’ve been in Indonesia way too long. Had no idea what the point of this video was until he said something,” another netizen commented.
What is Tongtoll?
The tool in question is popularly known as a tongtoll or e-toll stick. It was designed to help drivers who often struggle to reach the tapping machine at toll gates.
Without it, some drivers end up fumbling with cards, stretching awkwardly out of their cars, or even causing queues when their hands cannot reach the machine properly.
The inconvenience has been a common sight on toll roads, with cards occasionally getting stuck or payments taking too long, leading to congestion.
The tongtoll offers a simple solution by extending the driver’s reach, allowing for a smoother and faster process.
Its invention mirrors other clever yet quirky innovations that have emerged over the years, such as the selfie stick (tongsis) and scratching sticks. Just as those tools became everyday essentials, the tongtoll has become a handy companion for many drivers in Indonesia.
Today, the tongtoll is widely available across online marketplaces and comes in a range of materials and designs. Some versions are made of lightweight plastic, while sturdier ones use metal.
Shapes vary too: certain models resemble fly swatters, others look like antennas or mini telescopes. Many are extendable, ranging from 23 to 73 centimetres, making them easy to store in the car when not in use.
To add a touch of style, manufacturers now produce tongtolls in a variety of colours, giving drivers the option to match them with their personal preferences or even their vehicle interiors.
While the device might look amusing to outsiders, it represents a practical adaptation to everyday challenges faced by motorists. What began as a viral improvisation with a fly swatter has grown into a common accessory that continues to make life on Indonesia’s toll roads just a little easier.
