Bali Waste Workers Stage 400-Truck Rally Over Landfill Policy
Forkom SSB Chairman I Wayan Suarta explained that his group staged the peaceful demonstration in protest of a ministerial decree banning the landfill from receiving organic waste from Denpasar and Badung since April 1, ahead of a planned full shutdown on August 1.
He stressed that the policy had led to a buildup of organic waste at waste processing sites prepared by the Denpasar and Badung governments over the past 16 days since the restrictions took effect.
Seeking relaxation of the policy, Suarta emphasized that waste collectors and the wider community had made significant efforts to comply by sorting waste, ensuring only inorganic and residual materials were sent to the Suwung Landfill.
He noted, however, that trucks were sometimes denied access due to minor traces of organic material in their loads.
Against this background, he said Forkom SSB intended the 400-truck protest to push the government to abort the landfill restrictions while continuing revitalization efforts until waste-to-energy plants become operational.
The forum also asked President Prabowo Subianto to intervene in Bali’s persistent waste management problems.
“If these demands are not met, we will go on a mass strike to stop collecting waste,” he affirmed, drawing chants of support from truck drivers.
After conveying their demands, 10 representatives from the group were received for a discussion with Bali Governor Wayan Koster, Denpasar Mayor I Gusti Ngurah Jaya Negara, Badung District Head I Wayan Adi Arnawa, and ministry officials.
Meanwhile, Chief of the Bali Public Security and Order Agency (Satpol PP) I Dewa Nyoman Rai Dharmadi confirmed that the protest went peacefully.
“In fact, the trucks had their beds covered to prevent littering. Mr. Governor has received protesters inside,” he said.
Related news: Minister urges waste reform in Bali to safeguard Indonesia’s tourism
Related news: Bali allowed to reopen incinerators for wood waste
Related news: From plastic waste to fuel, Bali steps up sustainable energy efforts
Translator: Ni Putu Putri, Tegar Nurfitra