North Jakarta Mayor Hendra Hidayat laid the first stone to launch the revitalization of Marunda Kepu in Marunda Urban Village, Cilincing Sub-district, which is being developed into a cultural tourism destination integrating MSMEs and strengthening the local coastal fisheries sector.

Hendra stated that the revitalization of tourism area is a concrete step toward creating a well-organized, tourist-friendly environment, while also opening up opportunities for MSMEs and cultural arts, particularly to boost the local economy.

“Alhamdulillah, today we officially laid the first stone for Marunda Kepu tourism area. I see great potential in Marunda in terms of its history, culture, and economy,” he said on Thursday (10/2).

He emphasized that the success of the program requires support from all parties, including the government, Baznas (Bazis), the private sector, and the community. As planned, a 210-square-meter section of the 1,500-square-meter site is being allocated for MSMEs.

“Let’s take this moment as the starting point to transform Marunda into a leading tourism destination in North Jakarta that is both competitive and beneficial for coastal communities,” he encouraged.

Jakarta Baznas (Bazis) Chairman, Ahmad Abubakar, highlighted the importance of synergy in this area development program. This effort is connected to Senyum Teluk Jakarta program, a previously launched initiative in Thousand Islands aimed at community empowerment.

“We fully support this initiative as a follow-up step to improve the welfare of fishermen and local MSMEs,” he said.

Abubakar hopes the development of Marunda Kepu will create new business opportunities, strengthen the local economy, and provide added value for fishing communities along North Jakarta’s coast.

“Hopefully, this area will grow into both a tourism hub and coastal economic center that supports fishermen’s independence and contributes to Jakarta’s vision as a global city,” he added.

Meanwhile, Aman Bogor, Head of RW 07 in Marunda Urban Village, expressed his gratitude to the government for its attention and care toward local residents. He said the revitalization had long been a dream of the community to make Marunda a well-known tourist destination.

“I’m very thankful to the Mayor for making this revitalization a reality. Hopefully, Marunda Kepu will become more organized, attractive, and bring in more visitors,” he said.