Jakarta Traders Push Back Against Proposed Smoking Ban Near Markets

Concerns Over Livelihood Impact

Street vendors and market traders in Jakarta are strongly opposing the proposed 200-meter smoking ban near educational institutions and children's play areas as outlined in the Draft Regional Regulation on Smoke-Free Areas (Ranperda KTR). The traders, represented by the Indonesian Market Traders Association (APPSI), argue that including traditional markets in the smoke-free zones would severely impact their livelihoods.

Economic Implications for Market Traders

Ngadiran, the advisory board member of APPSI, stated that the proposed ban on selling cigarettes within 200 meters of educational institutions and expanding smoke-free zones to include traditional markets would eliminate a significant source of income for many traders. The traders have already been facing declining sales and economic challenges. The inclusion of traditional markets in the smoke-free zones would exacerbate their situation.

Regulatory Context and Next Steps

The Jakarta DPRD is currently finalizing the Ranperda KTR, which has sparked debate among various stakeholders. While public health advocates support the regulation to reduce smoking prevalence, traders are concerned about the economic implications. The final decision on the regulation will need to balance public health objectives with the economic realities faced by traders.