Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Inauguration of Sukamahi Dam, in Bogor Regency, West Java Province, December 23, 2022

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
The two dams are dry dams. Ciawi and Sukamahi (Dams) are expected to reduce flood in capital Jakarta by 30.6 percent.

And I have told Acting Governor of Jakarta that Sukamahi and Ciawi Dams and the construction of diversion tunnel from Ciliwung River to East Flood Canal (BKT), which is currently still in the process of land acquisition and is expected to be completed by March, will significantly reduce flood inundation area. It will reduce areas exposed to flood from 468 hectares to 211 hectares; it’s almost the half. Thus, Sukamahi [Dam], Ciawi [Dam], and diversion tunnel from Ciliwung River to BKT, normalization of 13 rivers in Jakarta will significantly reduce it. I have told the Acting Governor to remain consistent.

Regarding the issue of sea water which has started to flood the coastal areas, I think currently the sea wall is being constructed, but for the long-term, [the construction of] giant sea wall must be calculated and started soon.

I think that is all about flood in Jakarta.

Reporter
Mr. President, how many areas in Jakarta will be affected by the dams, areas that will not be flooded?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
As I said earlier, from 468 [hectares] to 211 hectares.

Reporter
Can [the dam] be used as tourist attractions? The management will be handled by regional government of Bogor regency?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I am not talking about the technical issue. If we look at the architecture, both Ciawi and Sukamahi dams are very attractive for tourist destination. They can become tourist destinations.

Reporter
Sir, this afternoon Indonesian National Football Team will play Cambodia. Do you have anything to say about it?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I will watch it.

Reporter
One more thing, Sir, the latest survey from Charta Politika revealed that the majority of respondents are in favor of reshuffle, is it possible to reshuffle Cabinet?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Probably.

Reporter
When? Early next year?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Later.

Reporter
Thank you, Sir.

(RAS/MUR)