PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Bandung City Government (Pemkot) has confirmed that it will restore sidewalks to their function as safe and comfortable spaces for pedestrians. This statement was made during a commencement ceremony at Bandung City Hall Plaza on Monday (May 18, 2026).

Assistant for Government and Public Welfare of Bandung City, Asep Cucu Cahyadi, read out a written speech from the Mayor of Bandung, Muhammad Farhan, in front of the state civil servants (ASN).

Farhan highlighted the continued high number of public complaints regarding sidewalk misuse. Several locations in Bandung are considered untidy due to street vendors (PKL) and other activities that interfere with pedestrian rights.

"There are still many public complaints regarding sidewalks being misused by street vendors and other activities that interfere with pedestrian rights," said Asep while reading the speech.

Farhan said sidewalks must be returned to their primary function as public facilities that provide a sense of safety and comfort for all residents, including people with disabilities.

"I emphasize that sidewalks must return to their primary function, namely as safe and comfortable spaces for pedestrians, including those with disabilities," he said.

However, the Bandung City Government is not solely focused on regulatory aspects. Farhan emphasized that street vendor management must be carried out with a humane and equitable approach.

According to him, the existence of street vendors is also an integral part of the community's economic cycle and cannot be ignored. Therefore, the solution must address two key concerns simultaneously: public order and the economic sustainability of residents.

"However, street vendor management must also be carried out humanely and fairly. We must not only focus on regulation, but also consider relocation solutions and the community's economic sustainability," he continued.

The Bandung City Government is also pushing for concrete steps in the form of organizing and relocating street vendors to more orderly and representative locations. This effort is expected to create a balance between public space and economic activity. (Bandung City Communications and Information Office/rka)