Indonesian Army Denies Taking Residents' Rights in Lenteng Agung Land Dispute

The Indonesian Army has asserted its claim over state assets in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta, stating that its actions are aimed at securing and developing land for active military personnel. Brigadier General Donny Pramono, head of the Army's Information Service, clarified that the Army is not infringing on residents' rights but is instead undertaking a necessary restructuring of state property.

The land in question, encompassing 44,841 square meters and certified as state property, is intended for the development of the Denzijihandak/SDS Pusat Zeni Angkatan Darat. The Army plans to expand its organizational structure, which will increase the number of personnel and necessitate more official housing and support facilities. Houses on this land are classified as State Houses, Group II, and are meant for active TNI AD members.

According to the Army, the process involved extensive outreach, beginning with socialization efforts from July-August 2024, including local community leaders and government officials. This was followed by a series of official warnings issued in October 2024, December 2024, and July 2025. The Army claims these steps were part of a transparent administrative process.

Of the 152 families initially residing in the area, 45 have reportedly vacated their homes after receiving explanations and assistance with moving their belongings. The Army stated that the ongoing restructuring began with 58 families, with the remaining 107 families still occupying the area at the time of the initial phase. The Army emphasized that all procedures were conducted openly and persuasively, prioritizing empty or unused buildings.