“Most of the infrastructure we’ve built so far serves a single function like flood control,” said Firdaus Ali, chairman of the Indonesia Water Institute. “In the future, we need to integrate all water-based infrastructure so that it serves multiple purposes.”
For instance, dams could be designed not only to control floods, but also to irrigate farmland, generate hydroelectric power and serve as recreational areas, he said. “Some areas could even be used for electricity generation through floating solar panels.”
Achieving this vision would require stronger cooperation with neighbouring Bogor regency, where most of Jakarta’s rivers originate, Firdaus said.
“This could create a new revenue stream for Bogor, while Jakarta enjoys the benefit of reduced flooding,” he said.
CAN THE GOVERNOR DELIVER?
Before becoming governor, Pramono spent nearly a decade as Cabinet secretary under former President Widodo, a largely administrative role that kept him out of the political spotlight. Before that, he was a long-time PDI-P politician, known more for his quiet efficiency than charisma.
When PDI-P chairwoman Megawati Sukarnoputri first asked him to run for governor, Pramono admitted he was hesitant.
The role of Jakarta governor is one of the most prestigious seats in Indonesian politics and has been a stepping stone to a run for the presidency.
Survey institutes did not even include Pramono’s name among the potential candidates for Jakarta’s top job, and he was looking forward to slowing down after years in the executive branch.
“He was even seen as a backup candidate because talks between PDI-P and Anies (Baswedan) went nowhere,” said Adi Prayitno, a political analyst at Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/indonesia-jakarta-governor-pramono-anung-budget-cuts-traffic-congestion-transport-lrt-5464586
