EN-ID Blog
Thursday, February 27, 2025, dawned with a different kind of light in Tanjung Kait Village. The atmosphere in Tanjung Anom Village, Mauk, Tangerang Regency, was vibrant. It wasn’t the usual hustle and bustle of the fish market or the sounds of fishing boats, but a new spirit permeating every corner of the village.
Since early morning, dozens of residents gathered, not just to chat or go about their usual routines, but to work together in a spirit of community. They dismantled roofs, tore down walls, and cleared debris from the homes they had lived in for years. There were no gloomy faces or sadness, only enthusiasm and solidarity. The old houses were indeed being demolished, but in their place, new dwellings would rise—more decent, more comfortable, and more dignified.
“Oh, I don’t feel sad at all. I’m actually very happy to be involved in this community effort. I can’t wait for my new house to be finished quickly, I want a better life,” said Komariyah, busy preparing fried snacks for the working residents.
“It feels like a dream, sir! But it’s really happening. Habitat is building decent houses for us,” said Amah, her face full of gratitude, while moving furniture. “Finally, I’ll have a comfortable and safe place for my children to grow up,” she added.
For decades, more than a hundred residents of Tanjung Kait Village lived in uncertainty. They not only struggled with substandard housing conditions but also faced land ownership issues. Their status was always in limbo, leaving them living in a constant state of anxiety.
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However, through the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization program, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with various parties, stepped in to bring about real change. It’s not just about building houses; this program also provides certainty for the residents. Since late 2024, hundreds of residents have received legal land certificates, thanks to collaboration with Koperasi Mitra Dhuafa (Komida). Now, they not only have homes but also clear rights to the land they live on.
It doesn’t stop there; hundreds of residents also received rental assistance for temporary housing during the construction process. The Tangerang Regency Government played a role by providing heavy equipment to expedite demolition and build public facilities that support residents’ lives. Supporting infrastructure for fishermen and breakwaters to prevent abrasion are also part of this major revitalization plan.
As part of transparency and resident involvement, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia also facilitated discussions with all residents about the revitalization project. These discussions covered demolition procedures, construction stages, and resident placement in the form of maps designed according to the joint decisions of various parties. Thus, every resident has a clear understanding of the process they will undergo and can directly participate in the construction of their future homes.
The year 2025 marks a hopeful beginning for hundreds of families in Tanjung Kait. More than just houses, they now have a decent place to return to, a place that provides warmth, security, and a better future for their children. It’s not just about physical buildings, but also about restored dignity, revived dreams, and hope that is now a reality before their eyes.
Let us support the continued success of this program, ensuring it runs smoothly and delivers tangible benefits to the hundreds of families residing in Tanjung Kait Village.
(kh/av)
