Tension gripped the Embong Malang area of Surabaya early Sunday morning (24/8/2025). Two groups of people were involved in a violent clash using sharp weapons, stones, and wooden blocks. As a result, one person was seriously injured and traffic flow was completely disrupted.

This incident immediately drew attention from the Chairman of Commission A of the Surabaya DPRD, Yona Bagus Widyatmoko. The Gerindra politician assessed that the clash could have been prevented from the start if there had been early detection measures from the city government, particularly the National Unity and Political Agency (Bakesbangpol).

“Bakesbangpol must be more active in reading the signs of friction in society. If there are indications of vulnerability, immediately coordinate with officials and community leaders so that it does not develop into an open conflict,” he emphasized on Monday (25/8/2025).

According to him, the government must not only appear when riots have already broken out. What is far more important is to strengthen prevention efforts and build intensive communication with residents.

“Bakesbangpol must act as a neutral bridge. Mediation and dialogue are the key so that residents are not easily provoked and take the law into their own hands,” he said.

He also highlighted the irony behind this clash. While the Surabaya City Government is promoting the Pancasila Village program to strengthen community harmony and character, a major brawl occurred in the city center.

“On one side, we are actively building harmonious Pancasila Villages. But on the other hand, clashes on the streets show the weakness of coaching and early detection of social conflicts,” he added.

As a large city inhabited by diverse ethnicities and backgrounds, Surabaya is indeed prone to social friction. Therefore, he said, the cohesive and harmonious character of the Arek Suroboyo must be continually nurtured as social capital.

“Surabaya is an open city, everyone is here. In fact, that diversity can become a strength if managed well,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, police officers had to work hard to separate the two factions attacking each other in Embong Malang. Although group leaders have been invited to dialogue, some of the crowd still tried to reignite the disturbance.

“All involved parties have been gathered for mediation. We urge the public to remain calm and not be easily provoked,” said the Genteng Police Chief, Kompol Grandika Indera Waspada.

Embong Malang

Embong Malang is a historic street and commercial district in Surabaya, Indonesia, originally developed during the Dutch colonial era. Its name, which translates to “sandy riverbed,” hints at its past geographical feature before it became a bustling trade and business hub. Today, it is known for its shops, hotels, and as a central business area in the city.

Surabaya DPRD

The Surabaya DPRD is the legislative council building for the city of Surabaya, Indonesia, serving as the seat of local government where elected representatives debate and create city regulations. The institution has its roots in the colonial era, but its modern form was established after Indonesian independence to support regional autonomy. It is a central hub for the city’s political and administrative activities.

Bakesbangpol

“Bakesbangpol” is an acronym for the Indonesian government agency **Badan Kesatuan Bangsa dan Politik** (Agency for National Unity and Politics). It is responsible for maintaining national unity, managing political policies, and overseeing community guidance. The agency has its roots in the need to foster harmony and political stability in the diverse Indonesian archipelago.

Pancasila Village

Pancasila Village is a historical settlement in Bali, Indonesia, established in the 1960s as part of a government transmigration program. It was designed to be a model community promoting unity and the national ideology of Pancasila among Indonesia’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.

Arek Suroboyo

“Arek Suroboyo” refers to the people and culture of Surabaya, Indonesia, rather than a specific site. The term historically describes the brave, resilient, and fiercely independent spirit of the city’s inhabitants, which was forged during the Battle of Surabaya in 1945—a pivotal event in Indonesia’s struggle for independence. Today, it embodies the modern, tough, and entrepreneurial character of Surabaya’s citizens.

Genteng Police

The Genteng Police refers to the local police precinct in the Genteng district of Surabaya, Indonesia. Historically, the area was a key administrative and commercial hub during the Dutch colonial era. Today, the station is a modern facility responsible for maintaining public safety and order in its community.