Denpasar, April 27, 2025 – The Asech team enthusiastically participated in the Forum for People Thinking About the City of Denpasar (FOMO) held at Youth Park, Denpasar City Park. Asech’s involvement in this event is a tangible testament to the active contribution of the younger generation in seeking solutions to the complex issues facing Denpasar, particularly traffic congestion.
This event was organized by Stravenues, a media community focused on urban planning issues from neighborhood to regional scales. Through segments such as Urban Discussion, Urban Stories, Urban Conversations, and Urban Portraits, Stravenues aims to enrich public awareness about the importance of better and more sustainable urban planning.
Why is Denpasar Congested?
In the presentation session, Stravenues outlined various factors contributing to traffic congestion in Denpasar:
The explosion in the number of private vehicles, with a ratio of vehicles to residents reaching 2:1.
A high dependence on private vehicles, both motorcycles and cars.
The city’s role as a central hub of activity in the Sarbagita agglomeration (Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, Tabanan) and a world tourist destination.
Public transportation that is not yet optimal — with a load factor of only about 30%, and services that are still far from adequate.
Poor urban planning and infrastructure support, such as minimal pedestrian pathways, on-street parking, narrow roads, and many unsignalized intersections.
Solutions: Not Just Public Transportation
Stravenues emphasizes that solutions to traffic congestion cannot rely solely on the provision of public transportation. Integrated steps must be taken, including:
Providing adequate and comfortable public transportation.
Tighter and more sustainable urban planning.
Traffic demand management to reduce dependence on private vehicles.
Inclusive infrastructure, such as bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, proper bus stops, and signalized intersections.
Educating the public on the importance of behavioral change, as well as actively monitoring and participating in discussion forums.
Reflections for the Future
Through this event, we are encouraged not just to complain about traffic congestion but to think critically and seek solutions. Discussions at FOMO clarify one thing: building a comfortable city requires cooperation from all parties — the government, the private sector, and, of course, us as citizens. A better city is one that is continually thought about together. Let’s continue to voice and support small changes for Denpasar and our other cities!
