Yogyakarta Authorities Threaten Sanctions for Illegal Malioboro Street Sign Installers

The Yogyakarta Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) has begun cracking down on illegal street signs in the Malioboro area, threatening sanctions against those who continue to install them. The controversy arose after tourists complained about being asked to pay when taking photographs with the Malioboro street signs. Upon investigation, it was discovered that illegal signs had been erected with a tariff imposed for photos. These signs have now been removed. “Yes, seven were removed on Saturday and Sunday in the Malioboro area,” said Yudho Bangun Pamungkas, Head of Operational Control at the Yogyakarta City Satpol PP, when contacted on Tuesday (4/8/2026). The photographers who installed the signs have also received guidance and were required to sign a statement pledging not to repeat the act. “Currently, the action taken is securing the items and making a statement. Yes, (all of them) are photographers,” he added. Satpol PP has also threatened sanctions against any party that insists on installing illegal street signs. The sanctions are based on Yogyakarta City Regional Regulation Number 7 of 2024 concerning the Implementation of Public Order, Peace, and Community Protection. “A statement not to repeat the act. Securing the items and the statement are administrative sanctions. If repeated, judicial sanctions can be imposed,” he explained.