Wamen Urges Local Government to Prepare Coastal Area Planning for Decent Housing Development
In a recent meeting with the Governor of Kepulauan Riau, Fahri Hamzah, the Deputy Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas, emphasized the importance of local governments preparing a well-thought-out plan for coastal area development and decent housing.
Fahri stressed that improvements in housing should be accompanied by proper urban planning to create better residential areas. He highlighted the transformation of slum areas into well-structured neighborhoods as a crucial goal. Especially in coastal areas with beautiful natural views, the integration of housing development and urban planning is essential for sustainable growth.
With approximately 12,000 villages located along the coasts of Indonesia, including those in Kepulauan Riau, Fahri underscored the strategic significance of these regions due to their proximity to global investment hubs like Singapore.
To attract investors, Fahri suggested that besides renovating and constructing homes, there should also be a focus on effective coastal area management. He called upon local governments, including the Governor of Kepulauan Riau, to prepare detailed plans for area development and suitable housing. This proactive approach would provide the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas with a clear roadmap for support and funding allocation.
Fahri proposed that provincial governments, like Kepulauan Riau, could organize design competitions to showcase innovative solutions for coastal village planning. This initiative could serve as a model for other regions looking to enhance their coastal communities.
The government’s ambitious program to build 3 million homes, with the majority in rural and coastal areas, presents a significant opportunity for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) to contribute to housing development. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision to address the country’s housing needs comprehensively.
By integrating housing development with thoughtful urban planning, local governments can create vibrant coastal communities that not only offer quality housing but also attract investments for sustainable growth and development. The collaborative efforts of government agencies, local authorities, and community stakeholders are crucial in shaping the future of Indonesia’s coastal regions.
