Puri Agung Cengkareng Left Abandoned as Residents Push for Revitalisation

Jakarta – Residents’ hopes of witnessing an economic revival in East Cengkareng, West Jakarta, have gradually transformed into anxiety. The commercial building once known as Puri Agung now stands deserted on the edge of Jalan Lingkar Luar Barat, without clarity regarding its future.

The approximately 160-metre-long building is surrounded by rusty iron and zinc fencing. When night falls, the area remains dark without lighting, creating an eerie impression for neighbouring residents.

Rumours circulated that the building would be repurposed into apartments, a hotel, or even a hospital. However, to date, no signs of revitalisation or official information boards regarding the development project have emerged.

“The plan was apparently to build apartments. There was talk of a hospital as well,” said Karim when met on Jalan Bangun Nusa on Thursday (26 February 2026).

He noted that the building was privately owned property. According to him, internal family disputes were believed to be a key reason why redevelopment had not materialised.

“It’s because it’s private property. Apparently the son doesn’t want to sell. The father wanted to sell, but eventually it didn’t happen,” he said.

Karim recalled that before its complete closure in October 2021, activity within the building had already declined drastically. Many business spaces lay empty and visitors became increasingly rare. Nevertheless, he believed the building structure still appeared solid and worthy of being brought back into use.

The shop-houses that once formed a thriving commercial hub are now sealed shut with corroded iron doors. Access to the courtyard is entirely blocked by high fencing. Beyond it, grass and wild shrubs have grown unchecked. The security post stands empty, whilst stairs leading to the building have begun to crack and become covered in moss.

Despite being located on a busy arterial road with heavy vehicular traffic, the area in front of the building feels deserted. No economic activity remains.

“At night it’s dark. The lights don’t work. We’re worried it might be used for undesirable activities,” said Erwin (47), a trader in the area.

According to Erwin, since the building’s complete closure, his customer numbers have decreased significantly.

“Previously, many of my customers came from people who worked or shopped inside there. Now it’s clearly decreased,” he said.