Malang, (malangkota.go.id) – In order to welcome Christmas 2022 and New Year 2023, the Malang City Government together with the Malang City Police held a ceremony for the 2022 Semeru Candle Operation at Malang City Hall, Thursday (22/12/2022). This ceremony was led by the Mayor of Malang, Drs. H. Sutiaji.
Mayor Sutiaji said, this roll call is an effort and way for the Malang City Government together with the Malang City Police to prepare everything, including security. This is a form of anticipation if there are unwanted things happening. Because during Christmas and New Year (Nataru) there are 41,7 million people's mobility in Indonesia.
"Malang has quite a lot of people, including students from various regions in Indonesia. In addition, Malang City is also a tourist city. So the mobilization of people will come to Malang City," said Sutiaji.
Sutiaji also said, at this moment it needs to be conveyed that maintaining tolerance is very important. Because the population of Malang City comes from various religions. So it is necessary to respect each other so that there is no friction.
"We have been touring places of worship in Malang City, churches and temples. We ensure that on December 25, Christians can worship safely and comfortably," he continued.
However, Sutiaji said, mitigation must be done. Because no one knows what will happen. According to him, maintaining security is not only the task of the police, but a shared task with the hope that Malang City remains conducive.
Meanwhile, Malang City Police Chief, Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto said that 718 joint personnel have been prepared for Christmas and New Year security, namely the Police, TNI, Transportation Agency, Satpol PP, and community organizations.
"For the implementation of Operation Lilin Semeru, we prioritize a persuasive and humanist approach. But without abandoning the instinct of alertness. So that Malang City remains safe and comfortable," he said.
In addition, the Malang City Police Chief appealed to places that will hold New Year's celebrations in 2023 to ask for permission from the police first. This is done so that the police can properly secure community activities. Meanwhile, regarding fireworks parties, his party did not prohibit them. But appealed to the public not to do it. Because it has the potential to injure others and themselves.
"There are rules for everything. That's why you need to report to the police first before doing a fireworks display," he concluded. (cah/ram)
