Malang, SERU.co.id – The Malang City Government (Pemkot Malang), through its Department of Environment (DLH), is undertaking a comprehensive reorganization of Merdeka Square (Alun-alun Merdeka), the city’s central public gathering space. Key improvements include boundary fences on all sides, dedicated children’s play zones, and designated smoking areas, all aimed at enhancing visitor comfort, safety, and overall order.
Mayor of Malang, Dr. Ir. Wahyu Hidayat, MM, personally inspected the site and confirmed that the upgrades will proceed promptly in response to community feedback.
“This square is a shared asset enjoyed by many people, not just Malang residents but visitors from across the region. It must be collectively maintained,” the Mayor emphasized.
These changes reflect broader goals for urban public spaces in Indonesia. Balancing accessibility with health, safety, and aesthetics while addressing common issues like littering, unsupervised children, and secondhand smoke exposure.
Upgraded Lactation Room and Cleanliness Enhancements
The lactation room has been made significantly more comfortable for nursing mothers and infants. With support from the Malang City Health Department (Dinkes), it now features a cozy sofa for breastfeeding.
Additional amenities include padded surfaces for laying down babies or changing diapers. Future additions will include a hot water dispenser and an in-room trash bin, Wahyu explained.
This focus on maternal and child-friendly facilities highlights a growing emphasis on inclusivity in Indonesian public spaces, particularly supporting families in urban areas where breastfeeding in open areas can be challenging due to cultural norms or lack of privacy.
Boundary Fences, Warning Signs, and Child-Friendly Design
Acting Head of DLH Malang, Drs. Gamaliel Raymond Hatigoran Matondang, MAP, stated that improvements are directly informed by the Mayor’s on-site inspection. The department is prioritizing orderliness alongside comfort.
Boundary fences will be installed at all entry points, though designed as open-style rather than fully enclosed to preserve the square’s visual appeal and neat appearance.
Existing natural barriers, such as strategically planted greenery, are already in use to prevent haphazard entry. The new fences will further promote a structured layout, making the space more child-safe and organized.
Warning signs will also be added: some to deter random smoking, others to remind parents to supervise their children closely.
These measures address common challenges in busy alun-alun spaces – such as children wandering into traffic or crowded areas – while maintaining the open, welcoming atmosphere that makes Merdeka Square a beloved spot for relaxation, exercise, and social gatherings.
Four Designated Smoking Corners for Smoke-Free Enforcement
To implement a smoke-free policy in core areas, DLH has established four dedicated smoking zones at the square’s corners (north, south, east, and west). Each is equipped with iron benches for seating.
“This policy ensures smoking no longer occurs randomly, especially in areas frequented by children, nursing mothers, and families, which must remain free from cigarette smoke,” Raymond stressed. (bas/rhd)
