A joint team from the Balikpapan City Government, the local Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), and security forces conducted a supervisory operation at several nightlife venues (THM) in the early hours of Saturday (1/8/2027). This step was taken to ensure that all nightlife activities operate in accordance with Regional Regulations (Perda) to maintain public order and security.
The Secretary of Commission I of the Balikpapan DPRD, M. Najib, appreciated the quick action of the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) and relevant institutions in carrying out this routine supervision. He emphasized that although the entertainment business sector is allowed to operate, compliance with regulations and the health protection of workers and visitors must remain the top priority.
During its implementation, the Secretary of Balikpapan Satpol PP, Izmir Novian Hakim, explained that his department collaborated with the Balikpapan City Health Office (DKK) and the East Kalimantan Province Satpol PP. The operation not only targeted the administrative compliance of business actors but also directly addressed preventive health aspects in the field.
Health workers accompanying the joint team conducted medical examinations and blood sampling for the early detection of potential sexually transmitted infections such as HIV/AIDS and syphilis. This proactive effort was carried out as a tactical step by the government to break the chain of transmission in areas considered to have high vulnerability.
According to the Head of the Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Working Team of the Balikpapan DKK, dr. I Dewa Gede Dony Lesmana, the trend of HIV cases in the region tends to stagnate at around 300 cases per year, with 124 new cases found up to mid-2026. He urged vulnerable residents not to hesitate to undergo free self-screening, which is now facilitated at all community health centers (Puskesmas) in Balikpapan.
