B2W Indonesia Questions Jakarta's Commitment to Be Bicycle-friendly City

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Chairman of Bike To Work or B2W Indonesia community Fahmi Saimima hoped that Jakarta’s efforts to be a bicycle-friendly city will not stop at the construction of bike lanes. He underlined that the capital’s commitment to the continuation of the bike lanes network led by Governor Anies Baswedan still needs to be criticized.

“When compared to other cities in the world, to support its citizens’ mobility, Jakarta seems to be satisfied with the construction of bike lanes,” said Fahmi in a written statement received by Tempo on Monday, October 26.

Fahmi said it takes courage and commitment from the city administration to boost the use of bicycles as a transportation mode. Besides, support in the form of a budget for the construction of facilities and infrastructure is also necessary.

“B2W Indonesia supports the issuance of regulations as guidelines for the cycling infrastructure and supporting facilities,” he added.

As the first step, the community suggested the implementation of Fuel-Free Friday which restricts the use of motorized vehicles every Friday morning from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.

“Unlike the Car Free Day which takes place every Sunday in a limited area, Fuel-Free Friday may cover a wide area and community involvement,” Fahmi explained.

B2W Indonesia also hoped that the city administration will soon build the Bike Lounge initiated by the Jakarta Experience Board, as well as reactivate and expand the Car Free Day policy.

“[Jakarta is expected to] realize one of the requirements for the 2021 Sustainable Transport Award recipient, namely holding a summit or grand conference on sustainable transportation,” said Fahmi.

Read: Anies Baswedan Suggests Incentives for Workers Riding Bike to Work

SYIFA INDRIANI | TD