“Manggarai Bersholawat,” Jakarta's New Style of Suppressing Brawls

JAKARTA – Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo emphasized that handling brawls in the capital city will not depend on just one approach, including the “Manggarai Bersholawat” program that he initiated.

According to him, resolving the brawl problem requires a multidimensional approach that involves positive activities and a humanistic approach.

“In handling the brawl problem, the energy of people who want to brawl must be channeled. Whether through sports, work, activities, improvisation, and getting closer to religion,” Pramono said in his statement in Jakarta, Thursday, May 15.

He mentioned many activity options that can be used as a means of channeling the energy of teenagers who are prone to brawls. In principle, he said, young people must be involved in productive activities so that they do not fall into street violence.

“Handling like this is more humanistic and sustainable,” Pramono said.

Previously, Pramono initiated the “Manggarai Bersholawat” program as a cultural and religious-based approach to reduce the number of brawls that often occur in the Manggarai area, South Jakarta.

He revealed that the root of the brawl problem in the area is one of the minimal job opportunities and the lack of utilization of public facilities.

“Many young people do not have permanent jobs. Sports facilities and other facilities are also underutilized. Therefore, I will initiate the ‘Manggarai Bersholawat’ program,” he said.

Pramono emphasized that resolving brawls is not enough through repressive actions, but must prioritize social and cultural approaches.

The "Manggarai Bersholawat" program itself will involve various elements of society, such as religious figures, religious councils, and other stakeholders, in order to create a space for expression and spiritual closeness for young people in the area.