Street or Stage? The Silver Men and The ENDLESS CONTROVERCY

SILVER MEN PURWOKERTO: BETWEEN STREET ART AND NEGLECTED SOCIAL NEEDS

Purwokerto, May 9, 2025 – The phenomenon of "silver men," which has recently become widespread in various regions, is now disturbing the peace in Purwokerto, Banyumas Regency, Central Java. Several residents have reported that the presence of these individuals covered in silver paint with eye catching appearances often disrupts daily activities, especially in busy public areas.

One resident, Sri Haryono (58), expressed his concern. “These silver men stand at intersections and always ask for money whenever a motorcycle or car stops. Even though there are regulations prohibiting begging at traffic lights, they still persist,” he said on Friday (May 9).

Responding to community complaints, a local official commonly known in Purwokerto, Mr. Junaidi, Head of the Cooperation Section (38), provided a statement: “Many people have submitted complaints through the Banyumas grievance platform about the presence of silver men. The most disturbing ones are usually at Simpang Kaliputih and near the market. We’ve conducted raids and brought them to a temporary shelter, but not long after, they were back on the streets,” he said, Friday (May 9).

Interestingly, Mr. Junaidi also recounted his experience chasing one of these individuals back to his home. “That’s when I finally discovered where one of them lives. After Eid, they started appearing again at Simpang Kaliputih,” he added. 

He further explained, “Actually, we would support them if they wanted to perform real art, like pantomime or meaningful performances, but that’s just an idea for now. There’s a concept of street art shows in Baturraden Park, which is government managed. When compared, the income from performing art is different from street begging.”

The public hopes that the government will take a firm stand in addressing issues of social, educational, and economic inequality. There is a general perception that the Banyumas Regency government has not shown sufficient concern for these social problems. Therefore, people expect more support for recognized and supervised forms of art, such as pantomime, which can be better monitored and appreciated.

The community also hopes that with more serious and responsible government programs not those misused for personal gain the environment can be made cleaner, safer, and more comfortable, creating a prosperous and harmonious society.

In conclusion, the residents of Purwokerto hope that the Banyumas Regency Government will show greater concern for societal issues, particularly for those who feel lost in life such as many of these "silver men". Likewise, residents wish to live peacefully and comfortably in the city without having to feel threatened or disturbed by such public displays.

Written by: Andhika Alifa