Minister Ara prepares the transformation of the Menteng area of Jakarta

JAKARTA - Minister of Housing and Spatial Planning (PKP) Maruarar Sirait plans to prepare the transformation of the Menteng area of Jakarta into a thematic area, such as a culinary village, in 2026, together with the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government.

"Before the program runs, we will have a dialogue with the people. Whether they agree or not. Every public policy must involve the community so that the program runs well and sustainably," said Ara as quoted by ANTARA, Friday, January 2, 2026.

According to him, this is expected to improve the quality of the environment as well as stimulate the local community's economy.

However, Maruarar or Ara confirmed that all policy and program plans would begin with a dialogue with residents to ensure public support and approval.

The Ministry of Public Housing continues to encourage the gradual and sustainable arrangement of slums. One of the efforts was carried out in Menteng Village, Jakarta, through a joint effort without using the State Budget.

Ara said that there are currently two units of houses that are being renovated through the spirit of mutual cooperation. The renovation progress has reached 70 percent and is targeted to be completed by mid-January 2026.

"Currently, there are two houses that have been renovated in a cooperative manner, the progress is 70 percent and we target it to be completed by mid-January 2026. This is a real example that with collaboration, housing improvements can be done faster and more targeted," he said.

In the future, the Ministry of PKP plans to renovate about 50 houses at once and carry out slum arrangements in the area without the state budget.

The arrangement will be carried out through cross-party collaboration, including with the Indonesian Architects Association (IAI) which will contribute to the preparation of house and area designs for free.

"We want the arrangement of this area not only to improve the house, but also the environment. IAI will help design the house and the area professionally without cost, so that the results are more organized and habitable," said Ara.