Indonesian Market Traders Association Requests Exemption from Jakarta's Smoking Ban

Background and Recent Developments

The Indonesian Market Traders Association (APPSI) has formally requested an exemption from the proposed smoke-free zone regulation (Ranperda Kawasan Tanpa Rokok or KTR) being drafted by the Jakarta regional government. This request follows a recent facilitation process conducted by the Directorate General of Regional Autonomy at the Ministry of Home Affairs. The facilitation process resulted in several key recommendations that address the concerns of market traders.

Key Recommendations from Facilitation Process

1. Exemption for cigarette display at sales points: The proposed regulation will no longer include a ban on displaying cigarettes at points of sale.
2. Allowance for cigarette sales in markets: The draft regulation is expected to include provisions that permit the sale of cigarettes in markets and other public areas where economic activities are conducted.

APPSI's Response and Expectations

APPSI Secretary General Mujiburrohman expressed appreciation for the Ministry's facilitation efforts, stating that the association's aspirations had been accommodated. The association now hopes that these recommendations will be incorporated into the final version of the regulation when it is passed into law.

Implications for Jakarta's Regulatory Landscape

The proposed regulation has been a point of contention between public health advocates and market traders. While health advocates push for comprehensive smoking bans, traders are concerned about the economic impact of such restrictions on their businesses. The facilitation process and subsequent recommendations represent a compromise that could potentially balance these competing interests.