Viral Video Shows Cikini RW Office Demolished for Free Meal Programme Kitchen, Mayor Claims Agreement Existed

A number of residents on Jalan Kalipasir, Cikini, Central Jakarta, have put up banners rejecting the demolition of a neighbourhood association (RW) secretariat to make way for a Nutritional Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG). The protest was captured in a video circulating on social media.

Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin stated that he had received reports from local officials. According to him, the demolition had been discussed with residents. The party intending to build the SPPG for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme had agreed to relocate the RW secretariat.

“The report from the village head and sub-district head is that for RW 01 secretariat, initially there were discussions, and there was even an agreement to relocate. So it was not just evicted like that,” he said at the Jakarta City Hall on Thursday (25/6/2026).

According to him, the party building the SPPG has prepared an alternative location for the RW secretariat. In fact, the construction of the new secretariat in the area has also been prepared by the party concerned.

“But now there are some who appear to be conveying, as seen in the info on social media, that there are rejections,” Arifin said.

He admitted that he would go to the field to seek information regarding the rejection. His party will also conduct mediation to prevent further issues in the future.

“So, for that, I will try to go down and check directly with the head of RW 01, then the Cikini village head, and also the Menteng sub-district head. What is it like, what do those who are rejecting want, and then what do the local RT/RW community want,” he said.