Police Reveal Reasons Why Bundaran HI Is No Longer Permitted as Protest Site
Polda Metro Jaya has revealed that the decision to clear the Bundaran Hotel Indonesia (HI) area from protest activities is based on technical studies and in-depth social impact analysis. The measure was taken to maintain mobility and economic stability in the heart of the capital.
Head of Public Relations for Polda Metro Jaya, Commissioner Budi Hermanto, explained that the axis of Jalan Jenderal Sudirman and Jalan M.H. Thamrin is the main epicentre of vehicle circulation in Jakarta. According to him, the concentration of masses at that point carries a high risk of triggering total traffic paralysis, with a domino effect extending to surrounding arterial routes.
Beyond being a main thoroughfare, Bundaran HI has now developed into a highly strategic mass transportation hub. The location houses the Jakarta MRT Station and an integrated Transjakarta bus stop serving hundreds of thousands of commuters daily. “Disruption at this point is assessed to directly sever public transport access for citizens heading to work or other activities,” Budi stated, as reported by Antara on Friday (12/6).
Furthermore, the police stressed that the area is a zone of vital national economic objects and an international hospitality centre. Maintaining security in this area is considered crucial for safeguarding the nation’s image and economic turnover.
Budi emphasised that this policy is not aimed at silencing public aspirations. The National Police continues to respect freedom of expression in accordance with Law Number 9 of 1998, but its execution must respect the mobility rights of the wider community. Legally, this policy refers to DKI Jakarta Governor Regulation No. 232 of 2015 and Article 6 of Law No. 9 of 1998 concerning the obligation to maintain public order.
Alternative Protest Locations: The government and police have directed masses to three alternative locations deemed capable of accommodating demonstrators without paralysing the city’s transport arteries.