Floods in Genuk Bring Warung Makan Suka Asih to a Two-Week Standstill

by Davina Aulia Putri (30802300016)

Source: Google Maps, accessed 2025

Genuk, Semarang – Flooding that hit the eastern part of Semarang at the end of October until early November 2025, particularly in the Genuk and Kaligawe areas, once again took a heavy toll on small businesses. One of the most affected is Warung Makan Suka Asih, which was forced to halt operations for nearly two weeks as persistent floodwaters made the area inaccessible.

Flooded road in Kaligawe, Semarang, where access to local businesses, including Warung Makan Suka Asih, was heavily disrupted.

Established in 2012 and managed by a new owner since November 2021, Warung Makan Suka Asih has relocated three times during its operation in Genuk as flooding frequently disrupts business activities. According to the owner, once water levels reach around 30 centimeters, the access roads become impassable, preventing customers from reaching the shop and forcing a temporary closure. This most recent shutdown occurred from late October through early November, when the flooding peaked.

The temporary closure caused a significant drop in daily revenue. Although the owner manages another branch that specializes in Javanese cuisine and remains open, overall income still declined sharply as many loyal customers from Genuk were displaced or unable to visit due to road closures. Most of the warung’s customers are local residents and students from Sultan Agung Islamic University (UNISSULA), who regularly dine there. However, since the floods hit, cannot come due to flooded roads.

Beyond financial losses, the owner expressed concern for her employees’ welfare. Several staff members had to be sent home without pay during the closure, adding emotional strain as she felt responsible for their livelihoods.

The owner also criticized current government flood-mitigation measures, particularly the strategy of raising the main road level, which she believes has worsened waterlogging in surrounding neighborhoods. She emphasized the need for more sustainable and long-term solutions to prevent repeated disruptions.

Despite the challenges, the owner remains resilient. During the closure, she assisted community kitchens and helped prepare meals for flood victims. Support from residents and loyal customers encouraged her as she worked to recover her business. She also hopes that the Semarang city government will provide fairer aid distribution for small business owners affected by the disaster.

For small traders like the owner of Warung Maka Suka Asih, flooding is not merely a natural disaster, it is an ongoing threat to business continuity, employee welfare, and family livelihood.

The owners of Warung Makan Suka Asih (center) interviewed about the impact of Genuk’s recent floods.