Several Malls Install High Fences; Police Confirm Situation Remains Conducive
The Indonesian National Police (Polri) have responded to viral reports concerning the installation of high fences in several shopping malls in Jakarta and Surabaya. The Chief of Police’s Senior Assistant for Operations, Commissioner General Fadil Imran, stated that the situation remains conducive.
He urged the public not to be swayed by rumours, emphasising that according to police data, public security and order (kamtibmas) are currently very stable. “As of today, based on the Daily Operating Reporting System (DORS) data, there are no prominent incidents,” Fadil Imran told reporters at GOR UNJ, East Jakarta, on Saturday (1/8/2026).
Fadil requested that the public avoid over-interpreting the phenomenon of malls strengthening their physical security. He noted that installing fences is a normal practice for property owners. “The public should not be misled by issues suggesting that disturbances to public order are imminent. People often fence their homes; there should not be a narrative suggesting that building a fence implies something bad is about to happen,” he added.
When asked about specific police precautions, particularly given that August is often associated with the ‘August Storm’ events of last year, Fadil stated that the police remain on high alert at all times without needing specific triggers. “The police do not have ‘special’ anticipations; we are on alert every day. Brimob and Sabhara are always ready. There is no special security measure; we are always on standby,” he said.
Previously, the Governor of Jakarta, Pramono Anung, highlighted the prevalence of high fences in several malls in the capital. Pramono argued that excessive fencing creates an impression that Jakarta is unsafe. He stated that he would coordinate efforts to regulate these high fences, noting that while security is important, it should not be manifested through towering barriers.
“I am closely monitoring the installation of very high fences in several locations. Personally, as the Governor of Jakarta, I want Jakarta to be safe and comfortable,” Pramono said at Hotel Borobudur, Central Jakarta, on Saturday (1/8).
He noted that business owners, mall managers, and property owners do not need to install excessive fencing, as it could foster a negative perception of the city. “This includes mall owners, property, and office owners. I will soon coordinate to regulate this,” he asserted, adding that based on coordination with security and law enforcement agencies, the situation in Jakarta remains conducive.