Nusa Dua, Bali (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian suggested giving an incentive of Rp10 billion, or around US$625 thousand, to local governments found to have been successful in managing water and providing access to clean water.

"The proposal is (to give) Rp10 billion for regions that are considered successful in water management," Karnavian remarked during the 10th World Water Forum (WWF) here on Wednesday.

The indicators of successful water management is equitable access to clean water and drinking water, good management of business entities that manage water in the regions, and irrigation to agricultural lands.

Karnavian explained that if this incentive proposal is approved by the Finance Ministry and the Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Ministry, the requirements will be formulated in greater detail.

He revealed that the relevant ministries will also hold further discussions on the number of regions that are considered excellent in water management and are entitled to the incentive.

"The Finance Ministry and the PUPR Ministry will discuss whether 100 regions or 10 regions are enough (for the incentives)," he stated.

The proposal is aimed to serve as a stimulus for local governments to improve water management and increasing access to clean water and drinking water for the community.

Water, in addition to energy and food security, is an important issue amid the increasing population.

"The world's population is growing exponentially and is expected to reach eight billion in six years, or by 2030, while the amount of energy, food, and water is limited," Karnavian added.

In Indonesia, water management, including clean water and drinking water policies, is handled directly by local governments in accordance with the regional semi-autonomy policy.

"We create a competitive climate between regions to let them compete with each other for the best management," he added.

Related news: WWF ministerial meeting adopts declaration on water management
Related news: Jokowi hopes for stronger collaboration at 10th WWF welcoming dinner


Translator: Dewa W, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2024