Semarang's Lawang Sewu Reopens after Closure during PPKM

TEMPO.CO, Semarang - Lawang Sewu, a famous landmark of Semarang city, has reopened to tourists after being closed during the enforcement of the public mobility restrictions or PPKM. The historic building from the Dutch colonial era has been open since Thursday, August 19.

The tourist site management, however, limited the number of visitors to 25 percent of its total capacity. Visitors are also required to comply with the predetermined health protocols against COVID-19 and bring their COVID-19 vaccination cards when entering the entrance gate.

“All workers and partners of the Lawang Sewu Museum have received the vaccine,” said PT Kereta Api Pariwisata spokesman M. Ilud Siregar on Friday, August 20.

Ilud said the tourist site's operating hours are limited to 20:00 Western Indonesian Time (WIB). The service flow is also adjusted to minimize potential crowds of visitors. “We have also prepared additional security personnel at the entrance gate,” he explained.

Ilud hoped the reopening of Lawang Sewu could satisfy people's longing for the icon of the Central Java capital. “We have also arranged and prepared to reopen the Lawang Sewu Museum for tourists,” he added.

Apart from Lawang Sewu, a number of shopping malls in Semarang city have begun to reopen. Visitors are also required to show their COVID-19 vaccination cards. 

Read: 46 Ha of Mangrove Area to Be Relocated for Semarang-Demak Toll Project 

JAMAL A NASHR