Malioboro, Jogja’s iconic destination, now strictly enforces its smoke-free zone regulation. Travelers, traders, and even local operators are being warned—violators caught smoking in the pedestrian area face penalties of up to IDR 7.5 million or a month in jail.
This decisive move follows the recognition of Jogja’s Sumbu Filosofi, including Malioboro, as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The local government, through the Jogja City Public Order Agency (Satpol PP), aims to ensure that the area remains free from cigarette smoke in alignment with its status as a cultural and historical treasure.
Jogja City Satpol PP Chief, Octo Noor Arafat, emphasized the importance of compliance, especially for those who frequent the area daily, such as traders and andong (horse carriage) drivers.
“Tourism service operators should set an example for enforcing the smoke-free zone. However, people often comply only when officers are present, hiding their cigarettes out of embarrassment,” Octo said during a press briefing on Friday, January 10, 2025.
He explained that Malioboro’s designation as a smoke-free zone (Kawasan Tanpa Rokok or KTR) is not new. Awareness campaigns have been ongoing for years, with the expectation that businesses and locals would act as role models for visitors. Now, Satpol PP plans to introduce tougher judicial penalties to create a deterrent effect.
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“This year, we will prioritize judicial enforcement, but only after ramping up public awareness throughout January. Together with the Health Office, we will revisit existing regulations and inform the public about the sanctions,” Octo elaborated.
Additionally, discussions with the Jogja District Court are underway to explore the possibility of on-the-spot trials for violators. Octo hopes this approach will drive home the importance of adherence to the regulations. “It’s crucial for everyone in Malioboro, from horse carriage drivers to shop owners, to set an example for visitors,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Hidayat, Head of Investigations at Satpol PP Jogja, noted that the smoke-free zone regulation has been in place since 2017 under Jogja City Regulation No. 2 of 2017. However, judicial enforcement has been delayed until now.
“In 2025, we plan to implement judicial measures. The public has had ample time to adjust since the regulation’s introduction in 2017,” Ahmad said.
He disclosed that in 2024 alone, nearly 4,000 violations were recorded. Surprisingly, about 95% of these cases involved tourists unfamiliar with the rules, while only 5% were linked to locals or tourism operators.
“Our focus last year was primarily on education and outreach. We worked to inform tourists and local operators like andong drivers, pedicab riders, and shop owners about the importance of maintaining Malioboro as a smoke-free zone,” Ahmad concluded.
As the enforcement of judicial penalties begins, authorities hope to preserve Malioboro’s cultural and historical charm while ensuring it remains a welcoming destination for all.
