Residents of Kampung Banjar Baru, Gunung Kijang Village, Bintan Regency, expressed their disappointment with the local government by staging a unique protest. Dozens of residents took to the streets to plant banana trees and unfurl banners with demands in the middle of the main access road, which is in a severely damaged condition.
This peaceful protest was triggered by the residents' frustration over the neglect of infrastructure that has lasted for about 15 years. The head of RT 01 in Kampung Banjar Baru, Ferdianus Yohanes, revealed that the road damage has existed since 2010 and has yet to receive serious attention from the regency government.
Ferdianus explained that, over the years, local residents have repeatedly carried out self-funded repairs through independent contributions. However, these temporary repairs did not last long due to traffic volume and weather conditions. Yet, this road, built in 2005, is a vital route for the community's daily activities and is located relatively close to the Gunung Kijang Village Office.
Through this banana tree planting action, the community of Kampung Banjar Baru urges the Bintan Regency Government to immediately intervene and repave the road. They hope the government responds quickly to ensure the safety of road users and restore the smooth economic mobility of the residents.