Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — On Saturday, November 30, 2024, the Indonesian government facilitated the relocation of 44 families—comprising approximately 139 individuals—who had been living beneath the toll road along the West Canal Inspection Road in Jelambar Baru, Jakarta, Indonesia. These families were moved to the Lokbin Rawa Buaya housing complex in West Jakarta. As part of the transition, they will receive six months of free rent in the government-managed complex.
A symbolic key handover was conducted by several high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Housing and Settlements Maruarar Sirait, Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), and Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian.
AHY highlighted the plight of these families, noting that some had lived under the toll road for decades, spanning three generations. “This is a situation we cannot allow to continue,” he emphasized.
Government Support and Future Plans
Jakarta Provincial Secretary Marullah Matali stated that the government will cover the rental costs of IDR 550,000 ($34) per month for six months. He expressed confidence that most relocated families, many of whom already have jobs, will be able to afford the rent after the initial period.
The Ministry of Social Affairs, represented by Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono, pledged additional support, including skill training and social assistance to help residents achieve financial independence. The ministry will also provide essential household items like beds and kitchen supplies.
Not all residents of the Jelambar Baru underpass opted for the relocation. Some chose to rent accommodations elsewhere at their own expense. Additionally, those without Jakarta ID cards (KTP DKI Jakarta) were excluded from the government’s housing scheme and will need to secure housing independently.
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Additional Relocations to Other Complexes
In addition to the Lokbin Rawa Buaya housing complex, the Jakarta government arranged for 95 families to move into other housing complexes:
- 20 units at Rusunawa Daan Mogot Blok
- 4 units at Rusunawa Daan Mogot Tower
- 26 units at Rusunawa Tegal Alur
- 45 units at Rusunawa PIK Pulogadung
Kelik Indriyanto, Head of Jakarta’s Public Housing and Settlement Department, detailed these arrangements, emphasizing the government’s ongoing commitment to improving the living conditions of Jakarta’s vulnerable populations.
This relocation marks a significant step in addressing urban poverty and providing dignified living spaces for marginalized communities in Jakarta.
(Becky)
