'Is the park really going to be public space?'

Many people, including noted public figures and scholars, are opposed the Jakarta administration's plan to convert the Menteng Soccer Stadium into a city park. They believe that the stadium should be preserved for its historic value. The Jakarta Post asked residents for their comments on the proposal.

Sri Hudani, 50, is an employee at the management of the Bung Karno Sports Complex. She lives on Jl. Melati in Taman Kedaung, South Jakarta:

I would prefer that Menteng Soccer Stadium in Central Jakarta not be converted into a city park because residents still need places for sporting activities.

The stadium indeed looks rather dull because the administration have not been taking care of it. The city doesn't have to convert the whole place into a park just to beautify the area.

I'm not surprised that many people oppose the conversion plan, because the stadium is probably the only place spacious enough for residents to do their daily exercise.

I suspect that the construction of a park will only serve as a avenue for businesses to find a spot in a strategic area. I heard that the administration will be inviting investors to open cafes there.

Tubagus Haryo Karbyanto, 36, is a public advocate, whose office is on Jl. Soeparmono, Menteng Dalam, South Jakarta. He lives in Pondok Rangon, East Jakarta:

Has the city administration consulted with residents about its plan to convert Menteng Soccer Stadium into a city park? Any plan is okay by me as long as residents agree with it, because they know better what they really need.

A second question, is that the plan in accordance with the city's spatial plan?

Even if the two requirements met, the city should only go ahead with the plan on one condition: That the park will really become a public space, not an exclusive venue for the rich.

I won't agree with the administration's plan to equip the park with a parking lot, which contradicts the function of a park. No vehicles should be allowed. Only pedestrians or residents who live within walking distance from the park should come.

--The Jakarta Post