The debate over loudspeaker usage in East Java has reached a new phase. The East Java Provincial Government will soon issue an official circular regulating the use of high-powered audio systems in various community activities.

Deputy Governor Emil Elestianto Dardak explained that this circular will provide legal and technical guidelines for sound system operations, which have sparked controversy in several areas. The regulation includes permitting procedures for events using loudspeakers and will involve police as the authorized permit-issuing body.

“The circular is complete and only needs signatures from all Forkopimda members. East Java Regional Police will officially announce it as it relates to permitting authority,” Emil said during a meeting at Grahadi State Building in Surabaya.

Clear Rules, Firm Enforcement

The circular not only outlines usage procedures but also details law enforcement measures for violations. Activities violating regulations—such as exceeding decibel limits, operating outside permitted hours, or lacking official permits—may face police-ordered shutdowns.

This regulation aims to balance freedom of expression in community activities with other citizens’ rights to peace and public order.

“This circular reinforces existing rules. We simply want to make them more understandable for the public,” Emil emphasized.

Although the circular isn’t officially signed yet, field enforcement continues. Several non-compliant events have been shut down by security forces as preventive measures.

The circular states that regulations apply to all loudspeaker usage, whether for parades, mobile activities, or stationary events. The provincial government wants to ensure community activities can proceed without disturbing other residents.

With this circular’s issuance, authorities hope to prevent future conflicts between event organizers and disturbed residents.

Grahadi State Building

The Grahadi State Building, located in Surabaya, Indonesia, is a historic Dutch colonial-era structure built in 1795 during the VOC (Dutch East India Company) period. Originally serving as the residence of Dutch officials, it now functions as the official office of the Governor of East Java. The building is notable for its classical European architecture and its role in Indonesia’s colonial and post-independence history.

East Java Provincial Government

The East Java Provincial Government is the administrative body governing East Java, Indonesia, located in Surabaya, the province’s capital. Established after Indonesian independence, it oversees regional development, infrastructure, and public services in one of the country’s most populous and economically significant provinces. The government operates from historic and modern buildings, reflecting the region’s blend of colonial heritage and contemporary governance.

East Java Regional Police

The **East Java Regional Police** (Polda Jawa Timur) is a provincial-level law enforcement agency in Indonesia, responsible for maintaining security and order in East Java. Established as part of the Indonesian National Police (Polri), it plays a key role in crime prevention, traffic management, and community policing in one of the country’s most populous regions. Its history reflects the broader development of Indonesia’s police force, evolving from Dutch colonial-era structures into a modern police institution post-independence.

Forkopimda

Forkopimda (Forum Koordinasi Pimpinan Daerah) is a regional coordination forum in Indonesia that includes leaders from local government, military, and police to ensure security, development, and governance. Established to enhance collaboration among regional stakeholders, it plays a key role in policy implementation and crisis management at the provincial or district level. The forum reflects Indonesia’s approach to decentralized governance and integrated security efforts.