The rejection was formalized in a joint declaration signed by the Indonesian Street Vendors Association (APKLI), the Nusantara Warteg Community (Kowantara), Warteg Merah Putih (Kowarmart), the Warteg Traders Association, and Pandawakarta, a group representing street vendors in Jakarta and surrounding areas.
They argued that several articles in the draft regulation would directly affect the sustainability of small-scale enterprises that have long supported the local economy.
APKLI Chairman Ali Mahsun emphasized that provisions prohibiting cigarette sales within a 200-meter radius of schools and playgrounds, expanding smoke-free zones to traditional and modern markets, banning retail cigarette sales, and requiring special permits would erode traders’ income.
He reminded Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung to fulfill his promise of protection by ensuring policies that provide space, access, and opportunities for small businesses to grow.
The traders also called on President Prabowo Subianto to ensure regional policies remain aligned with the central government’s commitment to empowering grassroots economies.
“We hope the President guarantees that local regulations will not contradict the national vision that prioritizes small-scale entrepreneurs,” Ali said.
Kowantara Chairman Mukroni added that banning smoking in local eateries such as warteg would bring significant economic consequences.
He warned that a drop in revenue would be unavoidable if the articles were enforced.
Kowantara’s internal data shows that around 25,000 warteg in Greater Jakarta closed after the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly half of the 50,000 that once operated across Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi.
The group warned that the situation would worsen if the draft regulation was enacted without considering its impact on small business owners.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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