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A massive cleanup operation involving over 500 personnel from the Indonesian National armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) took place in Tangerang City on Sunday, February 8, 2026, signaling a renewed government focus on waste management and public health.
The coordinated effort saw 504 TNI-Polri personnel converge on the Babakan market area, a central hub of community activity, to address mounting rubbish concerns. The initiative follows directives from President prabowo Subianto to prioritize waste cleanup across the nation, recognizing it as a “crucial problem” demanding immediate attention.
Addressing a Critical Public Health Concern
The Babakan market was specifically targeted due to its continuous operation – remaining active almost 24 hours a day – and the potential for accumulated waste to pose significant health risks. According to a statement released sunday, authorities steadfast that regular cleaning was essential to prevent the buildup of refuse and maintain environmental health.
Joint personnel meticulously cleaned both the interior and exterior of the market, focusing on trader stalls, drainage systems, and parking areas. The operation involved collaboration between the TNI,Polri,the Tangerang City Government,the Satpol PP (Public Order Agency),and local community groups.
“Today we, together with the ranks of the TNI, Tangerang City Government, Satpol PP, and the community’s potential, carried out a clean-up at Babakan Market,” stated Tangerang City Metro Police Chief Commissioner Raden Muhammadjauhari.”This is a form of implementing the government’s direction so that all elements are present in society through joint cleaning activities.”
Presidential Directive and the “corvée” System
The cleanup initiative stems from a broader national directive issued by President Subianto during a National and Regional Government Coordination Meeting held in Sentul, Bogor, West Java, on February 2, 2026. The President urged regional heads, TNI, and Polri personnel to implement a system of corvée – or mandatory community service – to tackle the country’s waste problem.
Subianto’s call to action extended beyond government officials, encompassing schools and communities nationwide. He passionately advocated for widespread participation, stating, “Governor, regent, high school, middle school, elementary school, under your control, what’s so difficult? Whether it’s Saturday or Friday, everyone at school gathers on this beach, this is our beach, this is our yard, let’s clean it up.” He repeatedly emphasized the need for action, demanding, “Corvée, corvée, corvée. Police deploy corvée, corvée, corvé.”
Collaborative Effort and Future Sustainability
The Tangerang cleanup saw participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including Dandim 0506/tangerang Colonel inf. Ary Sutrisno, Deputy Chief of Police for Metro Tangerang City AKBP Eko Bagus Riyadi, and representatives from Pokdarkamtibmas, Senkom, and the Saka bhayangkara scouts.
Authorities expressed hope that this collaborative spirit will inspire broader community involvement in maintaining environmental cleanliness. They highlighted the potential for effective waste management to support food security programs through the creation of fertilizer. “We hope that this spirit of mutual cooperation will be followed by the whole community so that environmental cleanliness is maintained,” a senior official stated. “With togetherness, it is hoped that Tangerang City will be cleaner, neater and more agreeable for all.”
The initiative represents a significant step towards addressing Indonesia’s waste management challenges and underscores the government’s commitment to creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for its citizens.
