TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Ministry of Transportation will soon pass a regulation to protect cyclists. The ministry's director general of land transportation, Budi Setiyadi, said that the rule would be issued once it was signed by Minister Budi Karya Sumadi.

"We have completed the public test. We are now going to submit it the draft to the minister for him to sign," Budi told Tempo on Monday, July 20.

The Bill on Cycling was designed by the Transportation Ministry several months ago as a response to the increasing trend of cycling during the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to Budi Setiyadi, there are three important points contained in the regulation covering the bicycle lane and its supporting infrastructure, bicycle equipment and safety, and the procedures for cycling.

Among the provisions set out in the regulations are the prohibition for cyclists to add accessories for transporting passengers. The rule is exempted for bicycles that are designed to have passenger seats.

Cyclists are also prohibited from using a cellular phone and umbrellas—except for hawkers. The rule also prohibit cyclists to ride side by side with other vehicles or using the same lane unless in roads where the traffic and road signs allow it. More than two bikes are also prohibited to ride side by side on major roads.

Budi Setiyadi said that the regulation applies to cyclists throughout Indonesia. Regional rules will be issued by respective provinces to determine sanctions and punishments for rule-breakers, targeted for completion in August.

Read also: Police to Ticket Cyclists Traveling Outside Intended Bike Lane

FRANCISCA CHRISTY ROSANA