Malioboro to Become 24-Hour Pedestrian Zone; Motorised Rickshaw Drivers Request Continued Operation

A number of motorised rickshaw (bentor) drivers visited the Yogyakarta Department of Transportation office regarding the plan to implement a full pedestrian zone on Malioboro Street starting this November. They are requesting that the government continue to allow bentor to operate until replacement vehicles are provided.

The Chairman of the Yogyakarta Motorised Rickshaw Association (PBMY), Parmin, stated that they fundamentally support the government’s plan to develop Malioboro into a full pedestrian area. However, he emphasised that the policy must be accompanied by solutions for bentor drivers who rely on Malioboro for their income.

“There is no issue. We support the full pedestrianisation as it serves the government’s programme. But we must not be sacrificed,” Parmin told reporters at the DIY Department of Transportation office.

Consequently, Parmin requested that the government allow bentor to continue operating in Malioboro until all drivers have obtained replacement vehicles. “As long as our colleagues have not received assistance with replacement vehicles from the government, please allow them to continue earning a living along the pedestrian route. Do not simply close it off,” he added.

In response, the Head of the DIY Department of Transportation, Chrestiment Erni Widaystuti, addressed the grievances. She stated that the drivers’ concerns would be conveyed to the DIY regional government officials.

“Regarding the aspiration that half of the road should still be used, we will communicate this. We will convey your aspirations so that a policy can be established that supports the needs of those working on the ground,” she said.