Residents around Kali Malang, East Jakarta requested that the Independence Day-race in Kalimalang is set to be anual agenda of Jakarta. Promotional assistance from Jakarta Provincial Government is needed to enliven more the celebration of Independence Day which has been held consecutively over 15 years.

Festival Kali Malang was held in 2003 by Jakarta Tourism Department, but since last 9 years, we held it by ourselves

"Festival Kali Malang was held in 2003 by Jakarta Tourism Department, but since last 9 years, we held it by ourselves" said Muchtar Rahman, Chairman of RW 03 Cipinang Melayu, Monday (8/17).

Muchtar hopes government could accommodate an annual activity in Kali Malang became a tourist destination. "We hope that the municipal government can synergize with their programs and promote as a tourist destination," he uttered, who claimed have become a committee HUT RI 9 consecutive years.

However, residents living from Makasar Sub-District to Duren Sawit usual to perform variety races such as greased-pole climbing (Panjat Pinang)  and pillow fight (gebuk bantal)

East Jakarta Mayor, Bambang Musyawardana said that his side welcomed the event. "It's a very positive thing. Ranging from Cipinang Melayu to Pondok Kopi many activities held enliven Kali Malang," he uttered.

Responding to the residents’ demand, Musyawardhana would attempt a way to synergize with Jakarta Tourism and Culture Department. "We’ll synergize it. But sorry to say that I think it does not need any assistance from city budget  to support the event," he told.

Relaying on Beritajakarta.com observation, there were 5 spots race in Kali Malang which caused traffic congestion due to many people crowd and interfere the traffic.