Police Urge Calm as Mall Fences Spark National Security Panic

August 4, 2026 | 02:04 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has urged citizens not to worry about threats against national security or the country's economy. This statement came following the viral narratives of heightened security measures at various shopping centers and national vital objects.

The head of public relations at Polri, Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir, assured that public order and security remain under control at major national economic hubs. According to him, the police undertake preventive measures to ensure public and economic activities run smoothly.

“The National Police runs routine patrols, strengthens intelligence activities, carries out early detection, secures national vital objects, and performs cyber patrols, alongside coordinating with local governments, business operators, and other stakeholders,” Johnny said on Monday.

These anticipatory measures involve all parts of the police institution, from the Polri headquarters to sector police units. Johnny explained that security measures are focused across strategic areas that significantly impact public activity and national economic stability.

The police also conduct real-time monitoring through the Daily Operational Reporting System (DORS). Data from DORS indicates that generally, the security situation is under control, with no incidents detected that could potentially disrupt national security stability or public economic activities.

Regarding the increased security measures at various business districts, Johnny cited "standard practice" to assure worker safety, asset protection, and smooth corporate operations.

Any potential disturbance to public order, he added, would be swiftly addressed to maintain a stable environment. “The public need not worry,” he stated.

Talk of a national security threat emerged after several malls in Jakarta erected high fences, including Kota Kasablanka Mall in South Jakarta.

According to an Antara report, a newly installed fence—spanning 100 meters in length and standing 2.5 meters high—was visible in front of the Kota Kasablanka shopping center. The gray fence was placed near the main vehicle entrance from Jalan Raya Casablanca.

Additionally, a number of shopping centers in other regions, such as Surabaya, also installed high fences.

Trade Minister Budi Santoso previously stated that these fences are unrelated to any potential security threat.

He claimed to have coordinated with the Indonesian Shopping Center Association (APPBI) and the Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo). "There is no (security) issue," said Budi Santoso at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Friday, July 31, 2026.

Meanwhile, the APPBI said the fences were installed to maintain public order. 

Special Presidential Advisor for Communications Hasan Nasbi remarked that there's no need to blow out the issue out of proportion. "Let's pray that our nation remains safe. We shouldn't amplify negative news. Reports that spread fear ought to be clarified," he said at the Presidential Palace on Friday.

Meanwhile, the Jakarta Provincial Government is moving to coordinate with the management of shopping centers and office buildings following the installation of the high fences.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has requested that the installed fences be removed. “The Governor deems the move to install high fences stem from excessive concern,” said Chico Hakim, Special Staff to the Jakarta Governor for Social Communication, when contacted on Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Read: Why Jakarta Wants Malls to Remove Newly Installed High Fences

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Why Jakarta Wants Malls to Remove Newly Installed High Fences

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