Amidst growing concerns surrounding the purported ban on 24-hour operations for Madura food stalls, Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan reassured the public of the absence of any such prohibition. Speaking at Palmerah Market, West Jakarta, on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, Minister Hasan dismissed speculations suggesting competition with convenience stores as the rationale behind the alleged ban.
“Why should we restrict Madura stalls? That’s unwarranted,” stated Minister Hasan emphatically, emphasizing the importance of fostering an enabling environment for local businesses. He iterated that there exists no official decree curtailing the operational hours of Madura stalls, asserting, “I see no issue with 24-hour operations for these stalls.”
The issue gained prominence following recent discussions, prompting clarifications from relevant authorities. Arif Rahman Hakim, Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (Kemenkop UKM), echoed Minister Hasan’s stance, affirming the absence of any directive restricting the continuous operation of Madura stalls.
“In our review of the Regional Regulation (Perda) of Klungkung District No. 13 of 2018, we found no specific prohibition against Madura stalls operating 24 hours,” clarified Secretary Hakim. He further elaborated that the regulation primarily governs the operational hours of modern retail businesses, leaving traditional stalls unaffected by any such restrictions.
Additionally, Kemenkop UKM pledged to engage with local authorities to address concerns surrounding operational hour restrictions. Secretary Hakim emphasized the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) while fostering an inclusive business environment.
“We stand firm in our support for MSMEs and their integral role in our economy,” reiterated Secretary Hakim.
Public discourse on social media platforms, including X, reflected mixed sentiments regarding the potential impact of operational hour regulations on Madura stalls.
“Imposing restrictions on Madura stalls operating 24/7 seems unjustified. These stalls serve a vital role in our communities,” expressed one user on Friday, April 26, 2024.
“Let’s not stifle entrepreneurship. Madura stalls operating round the clock provide essential services to residents,” echoed another user, advocating for the preservation of traditional businesses.
In response to such concerns, Secretary Hakim emphasized the ministry’s commitment to facilitating the growth and resilience of MSMEs, ensuring their continued contribution to the nation’s economic landscape.
