Central Jakarta Vice Mayor, Eric PZ Lumbun appreciated the free septic tank suction program held by Perumda PAL Jaya on Jalan Danau Batur, Bendungan Hilir, Tanah Abang, Thursday (9/25).

According to Eric, this activity is part of a joint effort to improve environmental quality and encourage the achievement of sustainable development targets, particularly in the areas of health and poverty alleviation.

"Sanitation problems are one of the fundamental issues that have a direct impact on human health , welfare and dignity," he said.

Eric added that this septic tank suction program is a real manifestation of efforts to declare Open Defecation Free (ODF) or Stop Open Defecation (BABS) in Central Jakarta.

"I hope that the free septic tank suctioning from Perumda PAL JAYA can be a good example for other environments. So we can continue to improve the community life quality," he added.

Eric stated that currently, six of the 44 urban villages in Central Jakarta have septic tanks, namely Cempaka Putih Barat, Cempaka Putih Timur, Rawasari, Gondangdia, Duri Pulo, and Sumur Batu. Meanwhile, 38 urban villages, with a total of 24,711 families, still do not have proper sanitation.

Meanwhile, Audit Committee of Perumda PAL JAYA, Eduardus Suharto explained, in addition to free septic tank suction, his party also provides education regarding the management of human-produced wastewater and its handling.

"We have collaborated with managers of places of worship, including mosques, churches, temples and others, to educate residents about waste management," he explained.