Officials from Lakpesdam and the Legal Aid and Counseling Institute (LPBH) of PCNU Sumenep visited the Sumenep Regency Government Office for an urgent audience regarding the presence of several entertainment venues on Thursday (7/2/2026). This meeting served as a momentum for NU activists to voice public concern over nightlife activities deemed to deviate from the norms of the religious town (kota santri).
Vice Regent of Sumenep, KH. Imam Hasyim, personally attended accompanied by several Regional Apparatus Organizations (OPD) such as DPMPTSP, Disbudporapar, and Satpol PP to respond to the demands. The Chairman of Lakpesdam PCNU Sumenep, Siswadi, emphasized that this step was taken with the blessing and mandate of Islamic scholars (kiai) to maintain regional peace and religious identity.
Findings indicated serious violations at five business locations: Mr. Ball, JLB, Harmony, Lotus, and Potre. Although administratively they only hold permits as restaurants, cafes, or sports facilities, practices on the ground revealed nightlife operations, including serving alcohol, DJ music performances, and alleged involvement of students.
In response to these findings, the local government stated its commitment not to be lenient. Vice Regent KH. Imam Hasyim asserted that the government will not discriminate when taking action against any business proven to deviate from its issued operational permits. A clarification process with business managers will be carried out immediately as a first step in enforcing regulations.
On the other hand, NU stated it would continue to monitor the government's promise. Siswadi emphasized that if the government does not take concrete action soon after this audience, his party is ready to mobilize masses to ensure regulations are strictly enforced to preserve Sumenep's dignity as a religious town.
