PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Mayor of Bandung, Muhammad Farhan, said that education has an important role in creating real social change in the city of Bandung.

He made this statement in his remarks at the 1446 Hijri Eid al-Fitr Silaturahmi event of the Darul Hikam Extended Family, Friday, (18/4/2025).

In a warm atmosphere, Farhan invited all elements of society to actively contribute to building the city through educational institutions.

"Education is the gateway to social change. Through education, we can also socialize government programs interactively and receive input from the community," said Farhan.

In front of the academic community and invited guests, Farhan also conveyed various challenges currently being faced by the City of Bandung, ranging from garbage problems to the rampant cases of thuggery.

He gave the example of parking attendants and horse-drawn carriages who charge high prices to tourists, which is considered to damage the city's image.

"We are not staying silent. The Anti-Thug Task Force is currently actively hunting down the perpetrators, and will take action according to applicable laws," he said.

Regarding environmental issues, Farhan said that the waste processing capacity in Bandung currently only reaches 10 percent.

However, he is optimistic that the figure will increase to 30 percent in the next two months through strengthening the Kang Pisman (Reduce, Separate, Utilize) program and the target of 1,000 waste-free areas by the end of 2025.

Farhan also emphasized that the Bandung City Government will continue to maintain and improve public facilities such as Teras Cihampelas.

Although the lifts and escalators are currently not functioning due to technical problems, he ensured that solutions would be sought immediately, including 24-hour security, lighting, clean water and toilets.

In closing, Farhan stated that as Mayor of Bandung he was open to criticism and evaluation from various parties.

"Alhamdulillah, the first criticism came from the Chairman of the Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD). I am grateful, because the criticism became material for evaluation," he said.