Robert Draws – Hunt for Art Vandal has been initiated by Tri Adhianto, a candidate for mayor of Bekasi, who is offering a reward of Rp 10 million to anyone who can help identify the individuals responsible for vandalizing public art in Kalimalang, Bekasi. This significant reward is part of Tri’s efforts to combat vandalism and preserve the creative works that bring pride to the city. Tri’s announcement comes after the recent damage to a mural in the area, which has sparked public concern.
In an effort to tackle the issue of vandalism head-on, Tri Adhianto took to his official Instagram to offer a reward for information leading to the identification of the culprits behind the destruction of public art in Kalimalang. “I’m offering a Rp 10 million reward for anyone who can help uncover the vandals,” Tri said in his post on January 4, 2025. He encouraged residents of Bekasi to send direct messages (DM) on his Instagram account if they have any information on the individuals involved.
Tri emphasized the importance of community involvement in the pursuit of justice. “If anyone has any information, please report it directly through my DM,” he added. The reward offer is an effort to engage the public in preserving the beauty of Bekasi and holding those who damage public art accountable.
The mural in Kalimalang, which was previously a vibrant and colorful piece of art. It’s became the target of vandals who defaced it with graffiti and other forms of damage. The mural, located across from Grand Metropolitan Mall on K.H Noer Ali Street. That mural is a symbol of creativity and pride for the city. However, it has now been marred by the actions of those who lack respect for public spaces and artistic expression.
Tri Adhianto, who previously served as the Acting Mayor (Pj) of Bekasi, has expressed his commitment to both the preservation of public art and the accountability of those who destroy it. “During my tenure as Acting Mayor, I’ve made sure to give space for artists, such as the mural community, to showcase their creativity,” Tri stated. “These murals are not just pieces of art; they are symbols of creativity and pride for our city.”
Vandalism, he said, not only destroys the aesthetic value of public artworks but also undermines the sense of community that has been built around these shared cultural expressions. Tri emphasized that the perpetrators of this act would be subject to both legal action and social sanctions. “The perpetrators will be processed according to the law and face social sanctions,” Tri added. This stance underscores his commitment to maintaining order and respect for public spaces in Bekasi.
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Unfortunately, the mural was not the only target of vandalism in the Kalimalang area. Concrete flowerpots placed around the nearby park were also damaged, further diminishing the beauty of the space. These acts of vandalism contribute to a sense of neglect and decay in the city. Which is a cause for concern.
The lack of sufficient security measures in the area has exacerbated the problem. As a result, the public art that was once a source of pride for the city has lost its value. The community’s efforts to beautify Bekasi have faced setbacks. Tri Adhianto’s call for action seeks to restore the integrity of these artistic efforts and deter future vandalism.
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Tri Adhianto’s offer of a Rp 10 million reward highlights the importance of collective responsibility in protecting the beauty of the city. As part of his mayoral campaign, he has consistently advocated for community engagement and the protection of public spaces. “Let’s work together to preserve the beauty of Bekasi. This city belongs to all of us, and we must protect and build it together,” he urged.
The mayoral candidate’s actions serve as a reminder that public art is a reflection of the community’s culture and creativity. It is vital that everyone takes responsibility for safeguarding these cultural treasures. Tri’s move to offer a reward for information on the vandals is not only a response to the immediate issue. It’s also a broader call for citizens to be vigilant and proactive in maintaining the city’s artistic heritage.
