TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Urban planning observer from Trisakti University, Nirwono Joga, on Wednesday argued that the installation of decorative lights mimicking the Palestinian flag in Jakarta does not add to the city’s asthetics, adding that it was inappropriate to do it based on solidarity reasons.

Nirwono viewed the decision behind the urban decoration was based on the personal stance of Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan, and not the official stand of the city administration. He argued that the governor should focus on handling issues related to the city and stay out of national political issues and showcasing it as the city’s official stand.

“That action would better be taken by the central government,” he told Tempo on May 19.

He argued that collecting donations for Palestinians residing in Jakarta would better portray governor Anies Baswedan’s support and solidarity for Palestinians. “Not on behalf of the city’s facility.”

The Jakarta Administration has installed decorative lights mimicking the Palestinian flag across a number of pedestrian bridges and other public facilities. The city's Bina Marga Agency head Hari Nugroho said the governor instructed for the installations.

A similar decision was made following the mass-shooting in New Zealand in March 2019.

“To build public awareness on the conflict that is happening in Palestine,” Hari confirmed to journalists on late Tuesday, May 18.

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