Jakarta Still Grapples With Open Defecation in 2026, Officials Vow Action

Jakarta's Deputy Governor, Rano Karno, has expressed serious concern over the continued practice of open defecation in the capital, even in 2026. He emphasized that it is never too late for Jakarta to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) status.

Karno revealed that some areas in Jakarta still lack adequate bathing, washing, and toilet (MCK) facilities. He specifically mentioned a neighborhood behind the Metropole Cinema where residents have no access to proper toilets, resorting to defecating in the river. The provincial government has committed to addressing these issues incrementally.

The ODF program is crucial for achieving total sanitation, curbing the spread of environmentally-based diseases such as diarrhea and worm infections, preventing stunting, and ultimately improving the quality of life for residents. A region can declare ODF status once at least 500 households consistently use standard MCK facilities.

West Jakarta Mayor Iin Mutmainnah reported that all 56 sub-districts in West Jakarta have now declared ODF status. She noted that Tomang sub-district, in particular, has achieved total ODF status with the government and collaborators facilitating seven communal MCK facilities, exceeding their target of four. The practice of open defecation is not merely an issue of environmental cleanliness but also a significant health hazard, as human waste can contaminate water sources and the surrounding environment, becoming a breeding ground for disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and parasites.