The government sets tomorrow, Wednesday (4/9), as a national holiday for legislative election. And like previous years, parents would take their children to have recreation after casting their votes in polling stations (TPS). As one of the cheapest tourism destinations in the city, National Monument (Monas) is predicted would be invaded by visitors.

As Indonesian citizens, we have to do election. That’s why, like in previous general election, the employees are given chance to cast their votes tomorrow

Unfortunately, Jakartans and residents from surrounding areas will not be able to do so and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Jakarta from the top of Monas because Monas Technical Management Unit (UPT) is dismissing all its employees to follow the election. Thus, all activities in the monument which was built in President Soekarno’s era will be closed for public.

“As Indonesian citizens, we have to do election. That’s why, like in previous general election, the employees are given chance to cast their votes tomorrow. This is because most of them are domiciled outside Jakarta, such as in Bogor, Bekasi, Tangerang. If we forced to open Monas half day, it would be difficult,” stated Head of Monas UPT, Rini Haryani, Tuesday (4/8).

Although the employees are dismissed, Haryani continued, her party still placing picket officers to guard the monument in turns. So, the residents can still play in the parks in in Monas area with their family.

“The parks are not (closed). The one that closed is only Monas Monument,” she told.

In addition, Haryani also informed that her party plans to clean Monas Monument after voting. It is conducted because the activity had been postponed during campaign period yesterday.