Jogja Last Friday Ride Speaks Out After Being Restricted from Entering Malioboro Area

The Jogja Last Friday Ride (JLFR) community has spoken out regarding the police restriction of their route into the Malioboro area of Yogyakarta. JLFR views this incident as a momentum to re-discuss the fair use of public space for all users. In a statement received by detikJogja, JLFR highlighted the irony that traffic jams caused by the dominance of motorised vehicles are considered normal, while citizens’ activities such as cycling and walking in public spaces are deemed a disturbance. “What is ironic today is not merely a debate about a cycling activity, but rather how we view road space,” JLFR wrote in a statement delivered by a representative who declined to be named on Thursday (9/7/2026). The community asserted that from the outset, it was not formed to dominate the roads or hinder public activities. According to them, the Last Friday Ride activity aims to celebrate cycling culture while serving as a reminder that roads are public spaces that should be enjoyed fairly, safely, and with mutual respect by all users. “We realise that every activity in public spaces must be conducted in an orderly manner, respecting the rules, and minimising the impact on the community. If there are shortcomings in its implementation, we are open to evaluation and improvement,” the statement continued. JLFR also expressed hope that the approach towards the community would be carried out proportionally, humanely, and prioritise dialogue. They believe that safety, order, and respect for the law are shared goals, but these should not eliminate the space for citizens’ peaceful expression. The community hopes that the polemic over the ban on entering Malioboro can become a momentum for communities, the government, authorities, and the public to engage in dialogue regarding more equitable road space management. “Because in the end, the road is not just a place to move, but also a shared living space,” the statement concluded. It was previously reported that the police restricted the route of Jogja Last Friday Ride cyclists passing through the Malioboro area. The policy was implemented following numerous complaints from traders who felt the group’s activities disrupted visitor comfort and triggered traffic congestion. This was conveyed by the Head of the Traffic Unit of the Yogyakarta City Police, AKP Alvian Hidayat. He explained that the policy to direct JLFR participants away from the main Malioboro thoroughfare was taken after many complaints from the public and tourists. The policy resulted from coordination between the police and the Yogyakarta City Government.