West Jakarta chases target for all subdistricts to stop open defecation by June

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The West Jakarta City Government (Pemkot Jakbar) is pursuing the target for all subdistricts to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) status or Stop Open Defecation (SBABS) by next June.

West Jakarta Mayor Iin Mutmainnah stated that, to date, out of 56 subdistricts in her area, only Tomang Subdistrict has not yet declared ODF.

“We are rushing for Tomang Subdistrict to declare ODF on 22 June. So, all 56 subdistricts will have declared status,” Iin told ANTARA in Jakarta on Tuesday.

Iin said the main requirement for a subdistrict to declare ODF is at least 500 households (KK) using covered latrines or connected to septic tanks.

She added that efforts to accelerate the ODF declaration are being carried out by building five communal bathing, washing, and toilet (MCK) units in RW 12 and 13 of Tomang Subdistrict.

“Beyond our expectations, from a target of 500, the realisation could reach more than 1,200 people who will be covered by the use of those five communal MCK units,” said Iin.

The main difficulty in achieving this target is the availability of space for building the communal toilets.

“The first challenge is regarding the location. We will certainly coordinate with related sector friends who have assets there,” said Iin.

Therefore, said Iin, cross-sector collaboration is important for the smooth running of the programme.

“Regarding ODF, this is a multidimensional issue. To achieve ODF, all sectors must be involved. So we are implementing a multi-sector collaboration strategy. Of course, with prior mapping,” Iin concluded.