Illegal Parking Attendants Still Operating in Tiban Center, Batam, Causing Concern Among Traders
The practice of illegal parking attendants in the Tiban Center area of Batam City, Riau Islands Province, has reportedly continued until now. In fact, the Batam City Government through the Department of Transportation designated the area as a self-managed or free parking zone since March 2026.
The presence of these illegal parking attendants is causing deep concern among street vendors and visitors. Dozens of traders claim to be afraid of the actions of people who continue to demand parking fees from drivers. This is feared to trigger unrest and disrupt business stability in the area.
The Chairman of the Riau Islands Malay Youth, Afrijal, revealed that this illegal levy disguised as parking can be seen almost every day at several strategic points in Tiban Center. According to him, this action leads to a practice of thuggery because it is carried out in an intimidating manner.
“Many traders are afraid and worried. Visitors also feel uncomfortable because some people still demand parking fees by force. This is not just about parking, but it has disrupted the sense of security for the community,” said Afrijal on Saturday (16/5).
The impact of this discomfort is beginning to be felt directly by small business actors. One trader mentioned that their turnover had decreased because buyers were reluctant to stop.
“If there are people who force them to pay parking fees, buyers become reluctant to stop. We who sell also feel the impact, so it’s quiet,” complained one of the traders in the area.
Although a coordination meeting involving elements of the TNI and Polri was held in early April, residents felt that the Batam City Government seemed unable to completely resolve this illegal practice. The enforcement carried out so far is considered only temporary and does not provide a deterrent effect for the perpetrators.
The community and business actors are now urging law enforcement officials and related agencies to take immediate action. They also asked the government to take preventive measures.
As of this article, the Head of the Batam City Department of Transportation, Leo Putra, has not provided an official response regarding the complaints of traders and the continued prevalence of illegal parking attendants in the Tiban Center area. (I-2)
The Deputy Governor of DKI Jakarta, Rano Karno, asked residents to understand the increase in illegal parking attendants in Tanah Abang during the beginning of Ramadan. Police had previously arrested 8 perpetrators of parking extortion up to Rp100 thousand.