Betawi Customary Council Urges Restraint After Deadly Clash in Central Jakarta

The Chairman of the Bamus Betawi Customary Council, Eki Pitung, has urged migrants and residents in the capital to jointly maintain security and not be quick to let emotions lead to conflict. “My brothers and sisters who are migrants in Jakarta, let us protect ourselves to maintain security and brotherhood. Do not be easily provoked by emotions that could lead to horizontal conflict,” he said in an official statement received in Jakarta on Monday. The appeal was made in response to a clash on Jalan Tambak, Pegangsaan, Menteng, Central Jakarta, on Sunday (26/7) which resulted in one fatality. According to police investigations, the incident began when two motorcyclists revved their engines loudly in front of a nasi uduk vendor near the Jami Matraman Mosque. After being reprimanded for the noise, the pair left but later returned with about five associates and allegedly damaged the vendor’s cart and assaulted residents. The action triggered resistance from locals, and the brawl spread to the Jalan Tambak area, where the group was believed to live. Both sides threw stones and other objects, leading to buildings and several vehicles being set on fire. “I urge all parties to keep a cool head regarding this matter, especially since the local police are already handling it. We are all children of the nation who love our homeland; let us maintain a conducive atmosphere. Harmony is beautiful,” said the chairman of the Bamus Betawi Customary Council. He added that the council, as a customary organisation, also bears responsibility for the stability and security of Jakarta and its surrounding areas, including Bogor, Tangerang, and Bekasi. “Do not be quick to act tough or feel strong. Live peacefully in Jakarta. Earn a living honestly, do not make enemies. God willing, your fortune in Jakarta will be smooth. Let us protect Jakarta as a community that understands custom,” Eki said. He further asked the public to entrust the resolution of the case to the police. “Please let us all trust the police. The law is the law. Taking justice into your own hands blindly is also subject to legal provisions. So trust the authorities, and let there be no more incidents like this.”