Jakarta City Council's Commission B Member, Al Fatih, appreciated Jakarta Governor, Pramono Anung's policy for providing a two-month free rent for MSMEs affected by kiosk rates increase in Blok M area.

Previously, Pramono personally inspected the Blok M area to address vendor complaints. The inspection revealed that the rental rate increase was not caused by PT MRT Jakarta, but rather by the cooperative's actions.

"I appreciate the Governor's step to provide incentives in the form of two months of free rent for MSMEs who want to move to a new, more comfortable area," he said, Thursday (9/4).

Furthermore, he requested a thorough investigation into the management and cooperation at Blok M. PT MRT Jakarta is asked to firmly evaluate and even terminate cooperation with the cooperative, if there are practices that are detrimental to traders.

In addition, Al Fatih emphasized the importance of reviving MSME locations that have been closed in Blok M. According to him, the attraction of this area cannot be separated from the artistic value, heritage, and authenticity of street food that grows naturally.

"Street food in Blok M isn't just a place to eat, but a creative economic space with historical value and cultural appeal. It would be a shame if a commercial approach diminished this authentic value," he added.

He also encouraged the Jakarta Provincial Government and regional-owned enterprises (BUMD) to maintain and develop the Blok M area so that it remains a public destination that supports MSMEs and enriches Jakarta's identity.

"Hopefully this problem will be resolved with a fair solution, so that MSMEs will become stronger, people's purchasing power will increase, and the face of Blok M will remain a proud icon," he hoped.