TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Jakarta Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) head, Arifin, said his side would take stern actions against traders opened stalls on sidewalks during Ramadan.

“The Regional Decree No. 8 of 2007 forbids sidewalks to be used for trade activities and also roadsides, pedestrian bridge, and bus stops,” said Arifin when Tempo reached on Monday, May 6.

He explained that street vendors were allowed to open a business on sidewalks as long as the place had been given permission from Jakarta Governor. The sites were usually set up temporarily for micro, small, medium enterprises (MSMEs), such as in Jalan Sabang, near Mandiri Building, Sarinah, Central Jakarta.

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“So don’t think all sidewalks can be utilized for trade. Trading on sidewalks is not allowed,” Arifin underlined.

It has become a habit that during the fasting month, many street vendors occupied roadsides or sidewalks selling takjil or light snacks to break the fast, such as in Jalan Kramat Sentiong. Those vendors usually opened business starting at 4 p.m.

The same condition occurred on Jalan Kebon Sirih. Numbers of traders promoted takjil. However, no officer of Satpol PP was seen controlling the area on the first day of Ramadan on Monday, May 6.

JULNIS FIRMANSYAH