TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Jakarta Public Housing and Government Building Agency was overwhelmed by the rent arrears of Jakartans residing in 24 low-cost flats or locally known rusun (Rumah Susun) which soar twofold into Rp50 billion within the past year.

“Last month (May), it reaches Rp50 billion, it likely raises now,” said Jakarta Public Housing and Government Building Agency officials Surahman to Tempo on Sunday, June 24.

Surahman planned to report the issue to Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan for solutions as he deemed it might burden the government.

Surahman explained the residence of low-cost apartment divided into two groups: public residents who were more obedient to pay the rent and relocated residents who were moved to the flat. They were likely struggling to pay the rental fee, let alone those who did not get compensation fund from the government due to the relocation.

The Housing Agency acting head Meli Budiastuti explained the agency would send warning letters to the relocated residences having arrears. While the public residences were required to move out if they were unable to pay in three consecutive months.

“If the public residents do not have good intention [to pay], we will empty the flat,” Meli said.

Furthermore, Marunda apartment management acting head Murni Sianturi admitted she had difficulties in collecting the rental fee. She strived to impose many programs including monthly installment. “It’s a lot of arrears and they claim to not having money,” Murni added.

According to Murni, most of the residents having arrears were from low-middle class. The total debt of Marunda low-cost flats has indeed increased to Rp12 billion from Rp7-9 billion in last year.

AVIT HIDAYAT