On Waste Issues, DKI DPRD Emphasises the Need for Education and System Improvements

Jakarta - A member of the DKI Jakarta DPRD, Hardiyanto Kenneth, has emphasised the importance of concrete steps in addressing Jakarta’s waste problems, from educating the public to improving the integrated waste management system from upstream to downstream. “The waste issue has still not been handled optimally to date. We see many accumulation points, untimely collection, and low public awareness in sorting waste at the source,” said Kenneth in Jakarta on Thursday. According to him, waste problems are not solely the government’s responsibility but require collaboration from all parties, including the public and local apparatus. The member of Commission C of the DKI Jakarta DPRD stressed that the DKI Jakarta Environment Agency must be more proactive in designing education programmes that directly target the public. Such programmes should not only involve socialisation but must be applicable and sustainable. “The public must be given a clear understanding of how to sort organic and inorganic waste, how to reduce household waste, and how to recycle waste that still has economic value,” said Kenneth. In addition, he stated that the role of local apparatus such as district heads, sub-district heads, village heads, and neighbourhood associations (RT and RW) is also crucial to ensure effective waste management at the grassroots level. Kenneth warned that Jakarta risks facing a waste emergency if there is no significant improvement, particularly in collection and management at Temporary Disposal Sites (TPS). “We also need to think about incentive schemes. The public who diligently sort waste should be given rewards or economic benefits,” said Kenneth. Furthermore, he urged the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government to immediately prepare stricter and more systematic regulations, as well as to build a comprehensive waste management ecosystem. In terms of education, Kenneth emphasised the importance of massive public campaigns through various communication channels, including public transport, television, and social media. He also shared examples of several Asian countries that have demonstrated effective and sustainable waste management practices, such as Singapore, which implements strict rules supported by modern incineration technology capable of converting waste into energy. This system significantly reduces the volume of waste ending up in final disposal sites. “Then in Japan, the public is required to sort waste in detail. High public compliance, supported by education from an early age, is the key to the success of that system. Meanwhile, South Korea relies on a technology-based approach and economic incentives, including a payment system based on the volume of waste produced,” explained Kenneth.