Members of Special Committee 9 assessed that the Draft Regional Regulation (Raperda) on Social Diversity remains insufficiently comprehensive as it only limits the government’s role to the sub-district level. They hope the role of neighborhood units (RW) can be regulated under a mayoral decree.

“Special Committee 9 members share the same enthusiasm. However, this regulation falls short by restricting government involvement only to the sub-district level. Subsequent implementing regulations should address the functions of RWs in social diversity, as they interact directly with communities. It would be unfortunate to exclude them—I hope this is included in the mayoral decree,” said a committee member.

To enrich the draft, the committee has conducted comparative studies in Semarang and plans to gather additional data in Salatiga.

“Semarang, Salatiga, and Singkawang are exemplary. Semarang performs well, with minimal ethnic/religious conflicts—perhaps due to its coastal culture.”

“There, Arab and Chinese traders coexist with local communities. Though past incidents occurred, they prioritize harmony.”

The member noted that tensions in Bandung often stem from communication gaps, particularly regarding places of worship, whereas ethnic conflicts are rare.

“Issues about places of worship are prevalent because communities may lack clarity on establishment procedures. Other cities and regencies communicate these processes effectively.”

The draft currently omits provisions on permits or procedures for establishing places of worship.

“This regulation focuses on broader diversity principles—mutual respect, tolerance, and similar values.”

However, the absence of sanction clauses was criticized. The draft only prohibits intolerance and discrimination, requiring disputes to be resolved through deliberation at sub-district or district levels.

“No sanctions exist—deliberation comes first. Criminal violations are referred to law enforcement, but consensus remains the priority.”

The draft comprises 10 chapters and 24 articles. Its adoption aims to foster unity and high tolerance in social life.

Bandung City Council

The Bandung City Council (Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Daerah Kota Bandung) is the legislative body of Bandung, Indonesia, responsible for local governance, budgeting, and policy-making. Established after Indonesia’s independence, it plays a key role in shaping the city’s development and representing its residents. The council operates alongside the mayor’s office to address urban challenges in one of Indonesia’s largest and most dynamic cities.

Semarang

Semarang is the capital of Central Java, Indonesia, known for its rich history as a major port city during the Dutch colonial era. The city features a blend of Javanese, Chinese, and Dutch influences, evident in landmarks like the Sam Poo Kong Temple and the Old Town (Kota Lama) with its colonial architecture. Today, Semarang is a bustling economic hub and a gateway to cultural and historical attractions in Central Java.

Salatiga

Salatiga is a small city in Central Java, Indonesia, known for its cool climate and scenic highland surroundings. Historically, it was an important colonial town during Dutch rule, with remnants of its past visible in landmarks like the Gereja Protestan Indonesia Barat (GPIB) Salatiga, a historic church built in 1852. Today, it is a peaceful educational and cultural hub, home to several universities and a mix of Javanese and colonial influences.

Singkawang

Singkawang is a coastal city in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, known for its vibrant Chinese-Indonesian culture and annual Cap Go Meh festival, one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations in the country. Historically, it was a trading post for Chinese immigrants in the 18th century, who later settled and influenced its cultural identity. Today, Singkawang is often called “the City of a Thousand Temples” due to its many Chinese temples and strong Hakka community.