A video post showcasing the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) building set against the scenic backdrop of Mount Tanggamus has recently drawn public attention on social media. The visuals highlighting the surrounding natural beauty sparked speculation among netizens, who alleged that the cooperative facility was constructed on forest land or in a restricted area.
In response to the issue, the community and the Sidokaton Village Government, Gisting District, issued a firm clarification. They assured that the information circulating online lacks factual basis and does not correspond to the actual geographical conditions on the ground.
Supardi, a local resident, stated that the cooperative building stands right in the middle of a residential area. He added that the building is only about ten meters away from residents' houses and close to various public facilities. According to him, the visual perspective giving the impression of being in the middle of a forest is merely due to the presence of local residents' vegetable gardens adjacent to the building.
The Head of Sidokaton Village, Indrio Basuki, also provided an official explanation that the selection of the construction site underwent a transparent village deliberation process. The process involved members of the Village Consultative Body (BHP), religious figures, and local community leaders to ensure the legality of the construction.
Village authorities hope this clarification will put an end to the confusion and misleading information circulating. Residents are advised to be more discerning when consuming social media content so as not to be easily misled by unverified narratives.
