Illegal Parking Attendants at Minimarkets: The Dilemma of Enforcement and Economic Solutions

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The phenomenon of illegal parking around minimarkets remains a classic problem in various major cities. This practice is often viewed merely as a violation that disrupts order, yet it harbours deeper social dimensions. In many locations such as minimarkets, the presence of illegal parking attendants is commonly encountered. This situation creates a dilemma between enforcing regulations and meeting the economic needs of the community. Chairman of the Indonesian Parking Association, Rio Octaviano, believes that illegal parking attendants cannot be seen solely as violators. He states that many of them take to the streets due to economic pressures. “The people carrying out these illegal collections are actually members of society seeking a livelihood,” Rio told Kompas.com on Monday (27/4/2026). He added that it is likely they have not yet gained access to suitable employment. Therefore, an approach that only emphasises enforcement is deemed insufficient to resolve the issue comprehensively. “Don’t just eradicate. The mindset shouldn’t just be about eradication, but also about providing solutions,” he said. According to Rio, minimarkets and other business actors can be part of the solution. He assesses that business locations with parking areas have the potential to absorb labour from the surrounding community, including those who have previously been illegal parking attendants. One option offered is to formalise them as official parking officers with a wage system, even if in a modest amount. In this way, parking activities remain orderly, while the community still has a clear source of income.