So, When Can Residents Picnic At Monas Again?

Illustration-Unsplash

JAKARTA - Since the COVID-19 pandemic began to hit until now, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has closed the National Monument (Monas) area to the public. Meanwhile, Jakarta has now implemented Level 1 Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) in line with the increasingly controlled COVID-19 cases.

The Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Menparekraf) Sandiaga Uno mentioned the discourse on the reopening of Monas to the public. Sandi admitted that his party had asked the DKI Provincial Government to open a national icon as a public tourist spot.

"Our (opening) Monas has coordinated with the DKI Provincial Government. We have submitted a request before Lebaran (Monas reopened) because apart from Ancol, TMII, and Ragunan, this Monas has been eagerly awaited. It is hoped that in the next two weeks it will be reopened," said Sandiaga some time ago.

According to Sandiaga, the reopening of Monas for tourists will have a big impact on the tourism sector and the creative economy.

The former Deputy Governor of DKI Jakarta views Monas as one of the favorite destinations for tourists, both local and foreign.

"We have international events and national events. Many of them are interested in coming to Jakarta, and Monas will be the main attraction. Many activities also want to use Monas as a backdrop for these activities," he said.

Then, what is the response from the DKI Provincial Government? DKI Jakarta Deputy Governor Ahmad Riza Patria asked all parties to wait patiently for the announcement of the opening of Monas by DKI Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan.

However, Riza could not confirm when Anies would announce this. "Just wait for it soon. Later, the Governor will tell you when it will be opened. How many days has it been entered into (PPKM) Level 1," said Riza on Wednesday, May 25.

"In principle, the provincial government will do its best as quickly as possible, as existing facilities owned by the provincial government can be used for the positive benefit of the community," he added.

Likewise with the Head of the National Monument Technical Management Unit (UPT Monas) Muhammad Isa Sanuri who said that his party was still waiting for directions from Anies to re-open Monas.

"Until now we are still waiting for further instructions," wrote Isa in a short message.