Extortion and violence in Jakarta

Extortion and violence in Jakarta

Cities in which social inequities prevail or where life is difficult and tough, such as New York, are vulnerable to crime. And in reverse, rampant crime can be taken as an indication that a city is beset with either one, or both of those problems. In this context we find it interesting to look at what is happening in Jakarta, as reported earlier. According to the report, extortion and hooliganism are on the rise.

But whatever the problems may be, that affect life and the social and political conditions in this city, steps must be taken to make Jakarta a safe place for its citizens. It would seem that the security apparatus must respond with greater dispatch to this disturbing development.

A further broadening of this sense of being unsafe, among Jakarta's citizenry, will cause this city to lose its dynamism and zest for life. People would limit their activities to only the most necessary, while restricting other activities, such as holding friendly meetings, enjoying the fresh air and shopping, or eating out with the family. Nightlife would be far from merry. Surely this is not the Jakarta we want.

Jakarta and other big cities in Indonesia should be made alluring and cheerful places which inspire a sense of safety among their citizens. What harm could there be in turning Bendungan Hilir or Tanah Abang into night markets, like the one that can be found in the heart of Seoul? What harm could there be in having spacious plazas, where people could stroll in the evenings and relax after a day of hard work and enjoy a good cup of coffee, or other refreshments?

-- Kompas, Jakarta