Comprehensive urban planning is essential for sustainable development, according to the Secretary General of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Tomsi Tohir. He emphasized the need for regional governments to prioritize long-term planning frameworks, regulations, and rules that account for the unique characteristics of each city.
Planning for the Future
The Importance of Long-Term Vision
Tohir made these remarks during the 2025 Outlook of the Association of Indonesian City Governments (APEKSI) in Bandar Lampung, Lampung, on Saturday. He stated that a solid planning foundation is crucial to ensure community well-being for the next 30 to 40 years. He also stressed that planning should extend beyond a single leadership term, given the persistent challenges facing urban areas.
Addressing Key Urban Challenges
The Ministry of Home Affairs is actively seeking strategies to improve urban waste management, intensifying research efforts with stakeholders to develop solutions, including waste-to-energy initiatives. Tohir also highlighted that leaders often overlook rapid population growth, leading to policies that are insufficient to address the resulting conditions. He urged regional governments to adopt more anticipatory and well-planned policies.
Opportunities for Urban Advancement
Several opportunities exist to drive urban advancement, according to Tohir. These include leveraging central government initiatives to boost local economic growth. The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program is expected to stimulate local economies by addressing food supply needs. Additionally, the tuition-free Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School) program and the Free Health Screening (CKG) program are anticipated to improve the quality of human resources in the regions.
Related reporting indicates ongoing efforts to develop Jakarta as part of a larger megalopolis and to implement waterfront city plans to bolster the blue economy. Research collaborations with international universities, such as those between IPB and institutions in Hanoi, are also underway to address urban environmental concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the Secretary General’s remarks?
The Secretary General’s remarks focus on the importance of comprehensive urban governance planning to support sustainable development and ensure the long-term well-being of communities.
What specific challenges were highlighted?
The Secretary General highlighted challenges related to waste management and the need for policies that adequately address high population growth in urban areas.
What programs were mentioned as potential drivers of urban advancement?
The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, the tuition-free Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School) program, and the Free Health Screening (CKG) program were mentioned as potential drivers of urban advancement.
How might a shift towards more anticipatory policies impact the future development of Indonesian cities?
