Jiung Market Fire Serves as Reminder of Vulnerability in Densely Populated Areas and Traditional Market Activities

The Chairman of the Jakarta Regional Leadership Council of the Indonesian Market Traders Association (IKAPPI), Miftahudin, stated that the fire in the Jiung Market area, Kemayoran, on Monday night (1/6), serves as a reminder that densely populated areas mixed with traditional market activities are highly vulnerable to fire disasters. According to him, Jiung Market is not merely a point of ordinary commercial activity, but an area that has grown organically, blending residential settlements, bird kiosks, semi-permanent stalls, and night market activities that are active almost every day.

“Areas with this character indeed carry high risks. This is due to high residential density, grassroots economic activities, layered electrical installations, and adjacent semi-permanent buildings,” Miftudhin said on Tuesday (2/6).

Nevertheless, IKAPPI DKI Jakarta appreciated the rapid response from the Jakarta Provincial Government, firefighters, security forces, and other relevant agencies in managing the situation on the ground. Miftahudin noted that such a swift response is crucial to prevent the flames from spreading further in high-density areas like Jiung Market.

“The situation there differs from ordinary permanent markets. This is a living area with very dense public activity, so the handling must be rapid and measured,” he added.

IKAPPI DKI also urged the government not to focus solely on the firefighting process, but to ensure that the recovery for the affected community and small traders is maximised. “Many residents depend on the livelihoods provided by kiosks, night stalls, and small-scale trade in that area. Therefore, the process of economic recovery for the community must become a priority once the emergency handling is complete,” he concluded.