In cities like Jakarta, population density has created immense pressure on both the built environment and natural water systems. Kampung Melayu’s location along the Ciliwung River makes it highly susceptible to flooding, a problem exacerbated by land subsidence and poor drainage infrastructure. The informal nature of the settlement has made it difficult to implement effective water management solutions, further compounding the community’s vulnerability to flooding.
Urban expansion into flood-prone zones has led to the destruction of natural floodplains, leaving cities like Jakarta with few mechanisms to manage excess water. In addition to flooding, Jakarta faces issues such as water scarcity due to over-extraction of groundwater and contamination from untreated wastewater. The city’s approach to managing informal settlements, including policies like the Normalization Policy, which attempts to relocate people from flood zones, often fails to address the root causes of these issues and neglects the social, economic, and cultural needs of affected communities.
Through this research, I aim to provide an integrated solution that combines a community center with water-resilient modular housing. These spaces will not only provide immediate relief from flooding but also serve as hubs for local engagement in water management and urban planning, creating opportunities for economic growth, skills development, and community empowerment.
