Jakarta Malls Install High Fences as Officials Reassure Public Safety
A number of large shopping centres in Jakarta and Surabaya have recently erected metal fences about 2.5–3 metres high around their perimeters. The sudden appearance of the barriers sparked widespread speculation on social media that they were linked to a possible large‑scale protest planned for August 2026.
Officials have repeatedly stressed that the situation remains safe. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung said the fences could give the impression that the capital is insecure and pledged to coordinate with mall operators to have them removed. President’s communication adviser Hasan Nasbi urged the public not to amplify unverified rumours and affirmed that national security is under control. Trade Minister Budi Santoso confirmed there is no security threat and that coordination with industry bodies found no issue.
Alphonzus Widjaja, head of the Association of Shopping Centre Managers (APPBI), explained that the fences are intended to regulate visitor flow, prevent traffic hazards and provide perimeter security, especially at sites near frequent demonstrations. Police spokesperson Kombes Budi Hermanto added that the installations are a normal security measure by property owners and that law‑enforcement remains on standby, but no special actions are required.
Entities: Alphonzus Widjaja · Asep Edi Suheri · Asosiasi Pengelola Pusat Belanja Indonesia (APPBI) · Budi Hermanto · Budi Santoso · Hasan Nasbi · Jakarta · Kombes Budi Hermanto · Kota Kasablanka · Pakuwon Mall · Pramono Anung · Tunjungan Plaza
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Alphonzus Widjaja gave statements at the Ministry of Trade auditorium in Jakarta on 30 July 2026. (Alphonzus Widjaja, APPBI chair)
- [● 3 SOURCES] The fences are intended to regulate visitor flow and improve traffic safety around the malls. (Alphonzus Widjaja, APPBI chair)
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Specific malls that have installed high fences include Kota Kasablanka, Pakuwon Mall and Tunjungan Plaza. (multiple articles)
- [● 2 SOURCES] The fences also serve as perimeter security, especially for malls located in areas prone to demonstrations. (Alphonzus Widjaja, APPBI chair)
- [● 2 SOURCES] The goal of the fences is to prevent uncontrolled entry and exit that could endanger surrounding traffic. (Alphonzus Widjaja, APPBI chair)
- [● 2 SOURCES] The installation of fences is not due to threats of unrest but is an operational security measure. (Alphonzus Widjaja, APPBI chair)
- [● 3 SOURCES] Malls in Jakarta and Surabaya have installed metal fences about 2.5 metres tall around their outer perimeters. (multiple articles)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Many Indonesian malls have used high fences since their initial construction. (Alphonzus Widjaja, APPBI chair)