Response to Excessive Workload Concerns from West Jakarta Satpol PP Chief

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The head of Satpol PP in West Jakarta, Herry Purnama, has urged his subordinates to take their health more seriously amid high workloads, following reports that 35 members of DKI Jakarta’s Satpol PP have died in the past nearly one year, suspected to be related to the heavy field duties and limited support facilities.

“The kids, when they’re tired, drink anything. When their bodies are not fit, they drink ice or sweet coffee, which is unhealthy. That’s why health reminders are routinely shared via the WA group,” said Herry when contacted by ANTARA in Jakarta on Friday.

Herry also confirmed that the workload of Satpol PP is indeed quite heavy. Especially when there are certain incidents that require members to be on standby at the location.

“We’re under the province. In guarding, there are three or four shifts, so some are off duty, on duty, and reserves. For example, guarding in Kota Tua, Pancoran, then at toll exits and so on. Not to mention if there’s flooding, brawls, or CRM complaints. So it’s like this (personnel on standby),” said Herry.

In addition to routinely giving reminders to members via WA group or during morning roll calls, Herry said that Satpol PP members in West Jakarta also undergo health checks every three months.

“We coordinate with the local health office, every three months we do a full personnel health check-up. Last in West in March, we did the check-up. So next at the beginning of June, we’ll do it again,” Herry explained.

Nevertheless, Herry stressed that carrying out duties is a professional obligation, so it must still be done even if deemed excessive.

“Well, we can’t look at whether the task is heavy or not. Basically, if there’s a call, we can’t be selective, whether it’s a night CRM complaint or other complaints. That’s why friends, pay attention to personal health, drink lots of water, don’t overdo the sweet stuff,” he added.

Previously, the Head of the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) of DKI Jakarta, Satriadi Gunawan, revealed that 35 of his members had died in the past nearly one year.

According to him, the high number is caused by the heavy workload in the field and the minimal support facilities and infrastructure for personnel.

“I’ve been the Satpol PP head for almost a year. So, almost 35 of my members have died. Not because of the head, but because of the conditions, the workload and facilities that are extraordinary,” said Satriadi in Jakarta on Thursday (23/4).

In a meeting with Commission A of the DKI Jakarta DPRD at the DPRD DKI Jakarta building, he also explained that the number of Satpol PP personnel at the sub-district level is still very limited, around seven to 10 people.

That number is deemed disproportionate to the tasks that must be carried out, from supervision to area enforcement. As a result, many members have to work for very long durations, even up to 36 hours.

In addition, Satriadi also conveyed to the legislators regarding support facilities, such as rest areas, which are still minimal. Yet, he said, Satpol PP members must guard for 24 hours at the sub-district office.

Therefore, currently, many Satpol PP members are forced to rest in places of worship or office corridors because adequate rest rooms are not available. That condition is also seen as impacting the health and stamina of the officers.