Central Jakarta Mayor Intensifies Campaign to Curb Tramadol Circulation in Tanah Abang

Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin has officially intensified a campaign to prevent the illegal circulation of hard drugs, including tramadol, through a series of mass education programmes. The move is a concrete effort by the city government to curb the abuse of illegal drugs within the community.

Arifin explained that the campaign follows on from cross-sector coordination meetings involving the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimko). The parties involved include the Central Jakarta Metro Police, the Military District Command, the Prosecutor’s Office, the Regional National Intelligence Agency (BINDA) and the National Food and Drug Control Centre (BBPOM), with support from religious and community figures.

“We will make a joint declaration with all community figures so that the Tanah Abang area is free from the circulation of illegal drugs, including tramadol and similar medicines as well as psychotropic substances,” Arifin said in Jakarta on Tuesday (28/7/2026).

According to Arifin, the campaign will be carried out widely, focusing on raising awareness of the harmful health effects and the legal consequences for those involved in the misuse of tramadol sold without a doctor’s prescription. This education will not only target the general public but will also extend into schools.

“This education will be delivered through information sessions at schools to protect the younger generation,” he added.

Beyond formal channels, the Central Jakarta City Government is also partnering with the Mosque Council. The aim is for messages about the dangers of hard drugs to be incorporated into Friday sermons and other religious activities. A similar campaign will also reach the neighbourhood level to ensure the message reaches the grassroots.

“We invite all parties to protect themselves, their families and their surroundings from the misuse of these drugs,” Arifin stressed.

This firm step was taken following public concern over the rampant circulation of tramadol being sold freely. Arifin hopes that synergy between the government, law enforcement and community organisations can create a safer environment, particularly in the Tanah Abang area, which is the primary focus.

“Together with Forkopimko, we continue to seek solutions so that the circulation of banned drugs can be eradicated. All cross-sector organisations share the same commitment: protecting Tanah Abang from the circulation of illegal drugs,” he concluded.