BEKASI – The Indonesian Youth Drinking Water Concern Group (PPAMI) has found that the water consumed by residents of Bekasi City does not meet national drinking water quality standards according to Health Minister Regulation No. 2 of 2023, Government Regulation No. 22 of 2021, and Government Regulation No. 122 of 2015.

This finding is based on test results of water samples from customers of Tirta Patriot, Bekasi City’s regional water company, which were independently conducted at the laboratory of PAM JAYA, Jakarta’s regional drinking water company.

The Chairman of the Indonesian Youth Drinking Water Concern Group stated that shocking facts about water distributed by Tirta Patriot to customers revealed water turbidity reaching 33.8 NTU, or 10 times more dangerous than the maximum safe limit of 3 NTU, while total Coliform content was found to be 6 CFU/100 mL, when it should be 0 CFU/100 mL.

“These findings indicate that the water supplied to customers is unfit for consumption and potentially causes skin diseases, digestive disorders, and bacterial infections,” he said.

He also revealed that based on his investigation, operational costs for water treatment by Tirta Patriot management have skyrocketed to billions of rupiah, in addition to clean water tariffs charged to customers continuing to increase.

“When a regional company continues to sell water that doesn’t meet standards, this can be categorized as abuse of authority and legal violations,” he stated.

“PPAMI has reported the Director of Tirta Patriot to the Indonesian Attorney General’s Office with allegations of violations of Law No. 31 of 1999 and Law No. 20 of 2001 concerning Eradication of Corruption Crimes,” he added.

In the 2023 financial report, water treatment operational costs were recorded at Rp23.1 billion, nearly five times higher than the previous year’s Rp4.1 billion.

“There are strong indications of public budget misuse. We want the law enforced, not only because of financial losses, but because of violations of people’s right to life and public health. The clean water service reaching homes is actually getting dirtier. The budget is swelling,” he emphasized.

Tirta Patriot

Based on available information, Tirta Patriot is a public swimming pool and recreational complex located in Bekasi, Indonesia. It was established as a community facility, with its name “Patriot” reflecting a nationalistic spirit. The site serves as a popular local destination for family leisure and sports activities.

PAM JAYA

PAM JAYA is the public water company responsible for providing clean water and managing the water supply system for the city of Jakarta, Indonesia. It was established in 1968 to centralize and improve the city’s water services. The company has played a crucial role in the development and infrastructure of Jakarta, though it continues to face challenges in meeting the water demands of the entire population.

Indonesian Attorney General’s Office

The Indonesian Attorney General’s Office is a key state institution responsible for prosecuting criminal cases and representing the government in legal matters. It was formally established after Indonesia’s independence, with its role and powers defined by law to uphold the legal system. The office operates under the executive branch, ensuring the enforcement of state laws and policies.