Jakarta Deputy Speaker: Padel Courts Near Residential Areas Must Have Soundproofing

DKI Jakarta NasDem regional chairman Wibi Andrino has put forward proposals to address residents’ complaints about noisy padel courts in the capital. Wibi expressed support for an evaluation of padel courts that have been causing public distress.

“First, carry out data-based enforcement. The mapping that has already been conducted must be followed up with audits of permits, spatial planning compliance, environmental management and monitoring efforts, as well as adherence to operating hours and noise thresholds,” Wibi said when contacted on Monday (23/2/2026).

The Jakarta DPRD Deputy Speaker stressed that detailed technical evaluations of padel courts across Jakarta must be undertaken. Operators must incorporate soundproofing systems if courts are built near residential areas.

“Second, conduct technical evaluations. Courts located near residential areas must meet soundproofing standards, have restricted operating hours — not running until late at night — and provide a clear and responsive complaints mechanism for residents,” he said.

Wibi also suggested that a dedicated regional bylaw governing the construction of padel courts in Jakarta could be enacted if existing legal instruments prove inadequate. “A dedicated bylaw could be an option if a legal vacuum or numerous regulatory gaps are found, but this would require thorough study to avoid excessive regulation and to continue supporting the business climate,” Wibi explained.

The 39-year-old legislator acknowledged that he himself plays padel in Jakarta to maintain his fitness. Nevertheless, he backs the evaluation currently being carried out by the Jakarta provincial government to ensure padel courts do not disturb residents.

“I do play padel occasionally in Jakarta myself. It’s decent exercise, keeps you fit, and is a good way to socialise. But for me, this isn’t about whether it’s a hobby or not,” Wibi said.

Wibi emphasised that all parties must be fair — sport may flourish, but not at the expense of residents’ comfort. “Regarding the permit evaluation by the provincial government, I agree in principle if the aim is to ensure everything complies with regulations and does not disadvantage surrounding residents,” he added.

Operating Hours Under Consideration

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is set to prepare regulations governing the operating hours of padel courts across various parts of the capital. The policy is being drafted in response to numerous complaints from residents about noise from padel courts continuing until late at night.

Pramono said he had received reports from multiple locations, including Haji Nawi, Cilandak, and Rawamangun. He noted that some residents feel severely disturbed because padel activities continue well into the evening.

“I have also received reports from various locations about padel courts facing objections from the public. There is even a case where a one-and-a-half-year-old baby cannot sleep because people are still shouting while playing padel late at night. In my view, that is not fair either,” Pramono said at Jakarta City Hall on Monday (23/2).