The function of the East Flood Canal (KBT) area will be maximized for urban farming. This is because there are many lands with potential for cultivation.

East Jakarta KPKP Sub-agency Head, Taufik Yulianto said, many people are utilizing the land along the KBT for farming. The area stretches from Pondok Kopi in Duren Sawit Sub-district to Cipinang Besar Selatan in Jatinegara Sub-district.

"This KBT area has quite significant potential and is very suitable for urban agriculture because of its open location and direct exposure to sunlight," he expressed, Thursday (10/9).

According to him, he needs support from various parties to develop urban farming in the area to improve community food security. This support is expected to come from urban farming enthusiasts, farmer groups, local urban village and sub-district officials, and locals.

"The vegetables and fruits grown there grow quite lushly. Moreover, the water supply is also very sufficient," he explained.

He explained, farming activities in KBT are not only done by residents or farmer groups involving RT and RW administrators, but also by TP PKK cadres, PPSU personnel, civil servants, and PJLPs

"There are also students and teachers who participate in urban farming activities in the KBT area," he added.

East Jakarta Food Security and Agriculture Section Head, Hendra Junianto added, there are currently 14 active farmer groups along the KBT.

They plant various types of vegetables and fruits, such as water spinach, spinach, bok choy, eggplant, tomatoes, chili peppers, red onions, grapes, bananas, guava, and avocados.

"They all are under East Jakarta KPKP Sub-agency. We regularly conduct monitoring and coaching to ensure activities and harvest results are optimal," he added.

Then those 14 groups have been active since 2022, and their number can continue to increase.

"If there is a formation of a new urban farming group later on, for instance in the Cakung or other areas, we will certainly facilitate and guide them," he closed.