President Soroti Sampah, Khofifah Clarifies Banyuwangi Showings

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa/IST PHOTO

JAKARTA - The issue of garbage, which was highlighted by the President in the 2026 Central and Regional Government Rakornas, also dragged the name of Banyuwangi. East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa stated that the location shown was not under the authority of the Banyuwangi Regency Government.

"I have confirmed with the Regent of Banyuwangi. According to him, it is not an area within the authority of the Regency Government," said Khofifah at the Presidential Palace complex, Tuesday, February 3.

He emphasized Banyuwangi's commitment to cleanliness had been going on for a long time, including the clean village program and garbage school which are still active.

The President emphasized the issue of garbage as a serious issue, especially in tourist areas.

Khofifah said the East Java Provincial Government would follow up on the directive through the Governor's Decree, which is currently being discussed by the Legal Bureau and the Environment Service. The policy targets areas with concentrations of tourists, including tourist villages.

"There will be no tourists coming if it is not clean," said Khofifah, stressing the urgency of waste management.

Apart from environmental issues, he also asked for verification of claims of historical sites in the RRI area which are associated with Bung Tomo. The Tourism Office is asked to ensure the status of cultural heritage properly.

This is said to be a response to the President's direction for local governments to strengthen the management of the environment and strategic areas on a measurable basis.