West Jakarta targets all sub-districts to end open defecation by June

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The West Jakarta city government targets all 56 sub-districts in the area to end open defecation (BABS) by June 2026. “In June, we will declare ODF (Open Defecation Free) in Tomang Sub-district to complete the 56 sub-districts in West Jakarta, so that all achieve ODF status and are ready to move towards a Healthy City,” said West Jakarta Mayor Iin Mutmainnah during an inspection of the construction of communal bathing, washing, and toilet (MCK) facilities in Tomang on Friday. According to Iin, the construction of these sanitation facilities can change community behaviour to be cleaner and healthier, especially in stopping the practice of open defecation (BABS). “We want the community to stop open defecation. The MCK being built meets health standards, clean water is provided by PAM Jaya, and the sanitation system is technically handled by relevant agencies,” she explained. She detailed that there are three main construction sites for communal MCK in the Tomang area. The three proposed construction points are around Rawa Kepa Reservoir in RW 012 with plans for six MCK cubicles, renovation of MCK in RT 007 RW 012 with three cubicles, and the construction of a communal septic tank targeted to replace eight open toilets in the area. The construction of these communal MCK facilities is part of efforts to realise a healthy environment while supporting the ODF declaration in Tomang Sub-district. Meanwhile, Tomang Sub-district Head Mansur revealed that the Tomang Sub-district area has 16 RW and 173 RT, with five RW still recorded as having BABS practices, namely RW 011, 012, 013, 014, and 015. According to Mansur, this condition impacts the increased risk of disease spread, environmental pollution, and a decline in community quality of life. The main challenges faced include limited land, public space, and budget. “Efforts that have been made include the construction of communal MCK in RT 007 RW 012, revitalisation of existing MCK, and non-physical approaches such as socialisation to residents and collaboration with various parties, including academics and CSR,” he said.