'We need tinted windows to shield us from glare'

The city administration plans to issue a new regulation on tinted car windows this month, which will reduce the opacity limit for tinted windows to 30 percent from the currently allowed 60 percent. Those who violate the regulation will face up to three months in prison or a Rp 5 million (US$595) fine. The new rule is designed to make it easier for police officers to ensure motorists obey the three-in-one traffic policy. The Jakarta Post spoke with some residents about the issue.

Muslim, 43, works as a driver for a company in South Jakarta. He lives with family in a rented house in East Jakarta:

I often have to drive to the Tanjung Priok Port in North Jakarta, where the sun can be blinding. Tinted windows really help shield the sunlight. There is low opacity tinted film, but it costs so much not everybody can afford it.

If the policy is only meant for those who enter the three-in- one zone, then why do we all have to suffer? Also, this is Jakarta, where the crime rate is high. The administration is just making it easier for criminals to see what is inside cars.

This ill-considered policy should be rescinded.

Handoko, 39, works on Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan in Central Jakarta. He lives with his family in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta:

I support the regulation on tinted car windows. This is not because I agree with the controversial three-in-one policy, but mostly out of security considerations.

We often hear reports about criminals, in committing their crimes, using cars with windows so dark that you can't see inside. Banning darkened car windows in the city might help reduce the number of crimes.

And crimes like robbery, extortion and rape also often occur in taxis with blackened windows.

I have high opacity tinted film on my car windows. I will remove it if the regulation goes into effect.

--The Jakarta Post