Addressing rumors of an impending ban on the 24-hour operations of Madura food stalls, Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan categorically denied any such restrictions. Speaking at Palmerah Market, West Jakarta, on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, Minister Hasan dispelled notions of competition with convenience stores as the impetus behind the purported ban.
“Why target Madura stalls? Such actions are unwarranted,” asserted Minister Hasan, emphasizing the need to support local businesses. He reiterated that there exists no official directive curtailing the operational hours of Madura stalls, affirming, “I see no reason to limit their operations.”
The issue gained traction following recent discussions, prompting responses from relevant authorities. Arif Rahman Hakim, Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (Kemenkop UKM), echoed Minister Hasan’s stance, clarifying that their ministry has never imposed restrictions on the operational hours of Madura stalls.
“Our examination of the Regional Regulation (Perda) of Klungkung District No. 13 of 2018 revealed no specific prohibition against Madura stalls operating 24 hours,” elucidated Secretary Hakim. He emphasized that the regulation primarily targets modern retail businesses, leaving traditional stalls unaffected.
Furthermore, Kemenkop UKM pledged to engage with local authorities to address concerns surrounding operational hour regulations. Secretary Hakim reiterated the ministry’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive.
Public sentiment on social media platforms, including X, reflected divergent views regarding the potential impact of operational hour restrictions on Madura stalls. “Limiting the operational hours of Madura stalls is unjustified. These establishments are integral to our local economy,” voiced one user on Friday, April 26, 2024.
