Pramono: Waste Management Reform Cannot Be Achieved Instantly

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has addressed efforts to reform waste management in the capital, emphasising that the problem cannot be solved instantly because many parties have profited from the existing practices. “To handle this waste problem, it cannot be done with a magic trick. Many people have been enjoying the benefits of it,” Pramono said at Jakarta City Hall on Wednesday.

Pramono stated that he has instructed the Jakarta Provincial Government to take firm steps regarding illegal waste disposal sites. The measures include public disclosure, imposing fines, and closing down companies that fail to improve. “First, they will be publicly named. Second, they will be fined. Third, the companies that have been profiting from the hotel, restaurant, and catering sector waste, if they cannot improve, they will be shut down,” he asserted.

He noted that the reform of waste management in Jakarta has brought previously hidden issues to the surface. “Since we took these firm steps, problems like those in Cilincing have emerged that were not visible before,” he revealed.

Pramono acknowledged that the reform efforts are likely to face resistance and predicted that he would come under attack. “Surely, many will attack me as Governor, but I will not back down,” he stressed. He explained that the overhaul of waste management is being carried out for the benefit of Jakarta’s residents. “What for? For the improvement of waste management in Jakarta. This is for our common good,” Pramono added.

Furthermore, Pramono emphasised the need for internal reform within the Jakarta Provincial Government, insisting that enforcement must be fair. “With all due respect, I also have to carry out internal improvements. So, it must be fair and just,” he explained.

In a related matter, Pramono responded to reports of journalists being intimidated while covering illegal waste disposal sites in Cilincing. He assured that the Jakarta Provincial Government is ready to provide assistance to media crews who wish to conduct coverage. “If they need to go there and require accompaniment from the Civil Service Police Unit or law enforcement officers, we will provide that assistance,” he concluded.