Zulhas's Bold Move: Waste-to-Energy Projects Cut from 11 Years to 6 Months

The government is accelerating the national waste processing programme. Previously requiring years, the process has now been drastically shortened. This step is achieved through regulatory simplification and faster designation of business entities. The impact is evident in several projects that have entered the construction phase. “Within six months of designation, three locations have entered the construction phase, including Bandung, Bali, and Bogor,” said Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan at the Coordinating Ministry for Food office on Monday (4/5/2026). This acceleration is part of a broader national strategy. The government targets coverage far beyond Jakarta. The number of locations being prepared continues to increase. “There are 14 more locations that we have decided on, plus five locations still in the preparation stage,” he said. The programme targets not only major cities but also high-waste agglomeration areas. “This coverage includes around 71 districts and cities that will have their completion accelerated within six months,” he explained. He emphasised that this change is in stark contrast to the past. “Previously it could take up to 11 years, now we have accelerated it to six months for the initial process,” Zulhas revealed.