Malioboro Full Pedestrian Scheme to Begin November 2026

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) government will implement a full pedestrian scheme for the Malioboro area starting November 2026. The plan is currently being finalised based on evaluations from several previous trials. Regional Secretary Ni Made Dwi Panti Indrayanti stated that the scheme is being refined, particularly regarding the management of side streets branching off Malioboro. “Yes (full pedestrian starts in November), we will see. If it is a full pedestrian scheme, why would we delay any longer?” Made said when met at the Kepatihan Complex in Yogyakarta on Wednesday (1/7/2026). “However, we do need collaboration, not just with the DIY Regional Government, but also with the Yogyakarta City Government. One of the tasks is managing the side streets.” Based on evaluations from previous trials, such as during Yogyakarta City’s anniversary, the government is working on regulating side streets and traditional vehicles. “We are trying it out. Each side street will be equipped with a portal,” Made added. “We also need to see. Full pedestrianisation does not mean the area becomes completely empty with no one able to pass. There are exceptions, such as for special vehicles like ambulances, fire engines in emergencies, or state guests.” The DIY Government is also designing a drop-off scheme for tourist buses, with plans to provide a specific location for passengers to alight. Made hopes the public will understand the policy, as the Malioboro area is not only a low-emission zone but also suffers from excessive vehicle loads that often cause congestion. “Why are we doing this arrangement? It is not because we dislike visitors, but we want to create comfort. Because sustainability of an area depends on how we manage it,” Made explained. “If the vehicle volume is too high, it will eventually have a negative impact on the area. The carrying capacity will be affected if we do not regulate it. Moreover, there are many heritage buildings that could gradually be disturbed by external factors like vibrations,” she concluded.