HARIANEXPRESS – Bung Karno’s Tomb (MBK) in Blitar City has officially opened its doors to the public for 24 hours a day. This new policy was inaugurated with a celebration (tasyakuran) hosted by the Blitar City Government and regional leaders, along with hundreds of residents, on Saturday evening, August 15, 2026.
This initiative aims to provide greater convenience for the community and pilgrims wishing to visit the tomb of the first President of the Republic of Indonesia, Ir. Soekarno, at any time.
Extended Access for Pilgrims and Tourism
The inauguration of 24-hour service aligns with efforts by the Blitar City Government to enhance public service. It also aims to significantly impact the city’s tourism sector and local economy.
Wali Kota Blitar Syauqul Muhibbin directly opened the tasyakuran event. Romy Soekarno, representing Bung Karno’s family, also offered guidance virtually during the occasion.
“This coincides with the moment of his passing. Therefore, the Blitar City Government is opening MBK 24 hours, facilitating all communities and pilgrims to come to Blitar City to visit Bung Karno anytime, morning, afternoon, or night,” Syauqul stated.
Syauqul explained that the selection of August 15, 2026, for the 24-hour opening was based on the Javanese calendar. This date coincided with Minggu Kliwon, mirroring the day Bung Karno passed away on June 21, 1970, which was also a Minggu Kliwon.
Boosting Local Economy and Facilities
The 24-hour operation of Bung Karno’s Tomb is expected to boost tourism in Blitar City. This allows visitors more flexibility in their activities, encouraging longer stays.
Many local facilities, including cafes and other gathering spots, have also begun operating until late at night, or even 24 hours, to support this concept. The government hopes to develop night tourism opportunities, prompting tourists to extend their visits and stay overnight.
“The government wants to serve the community full-time, meaning 24 hours,” Syauqul emphasized.
This strategy is anticipated to increase accommodation occupancy rates and stimulate the economy for businesses around the tourist destination.
Ensuring Security and Service with Shift System
To guarantee excellent service, the Blitar City Government has deployed officers working in a shift system. Security and pilgrim service are paramount considerations in implementing the 24-hour operational schedule.
“We have prepared security officers and facilitated tourists from afar to visit anytime. Many tourists want to visit at night because the atmosphere is more solemn,” Syauqul clarified.
Syauqul further assured that visitors arriving with good intentions for pilgrimage should not worry about security. The government guarantees that officers will remain vigilant throughout the tomb’s extended operating hours.
Coordination with Bung Karno’s Family
The Blitar City Government consistently coordinates with Bung Karno’s family regarding the management of MBK. Syauqul mentioned that his office regularly reports the number of visitors to Megawati Soekarnoputri.
Megawati has also expressed concern for pilgrim orderliness, stressing the importance of maintaining a conducive atmosphere around the tomb area. These operational standards (SOPs) are diligently applied by the city government.
Enhancements and Pilgrim Focus
The Blitar City Government plans further improvements to facilities within the MBK complex, including enhanced lighting. Syauqul explained that the primary goal of the 24-hour opening is to provide dedicated service to pilgrims.
“The essence of this opening is to facilitate pilgrims. Bung Karno deserves to be prayed for by the community, by the entire Indonesian nation. If pilgrims come here and are not served well, it would certainly not be good,” he remarked.
Syauqul added that pilgrimages to Bung Karno’s Tomb transcend mere ritual, offering an opportunity for people to gain wisdom and inspiration from his thoughts and struggles, which laid the foundation for the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.
