IDM Inaugurates Construction of Decent Housing in Borobudur, Central Java

Siswanto, a father of three who works as a street vendor, described the condition of his house before the renovation. The over 100-year-old family home was previously barely habitable. A leaking roof, dirt floors, and rat infestation forced him to leave his home frequently. 

"There were many obstacles, as the house was prone to termites. When I returned, the house was already infested with termites. When it rained, it leaked a lot. The only bed I had was already eaten by termites," he explained.

He expressed his gratitude for the home renovation assistance from InJourney Destination Management. The 6x6 meter home was a special gift for his retirement. The renovation began with the groundbreaking on October 1, 2025, and was completed on November 10, 2025, marking the first major renovation since the house was built.

"At 74 years old, having a sturdy and healthy home is a personal dream. Previously, my house was far from adequate, but thanks to assistance from PT TWC, I can rest in peace without fear of a leaking roof or crumbling walls. I am very grateful to still be cared for and given a good place to live in my old age," he explained.

IDM President Director Febrina Intan explained that the RTLH program is part of an effort to improve the welfare of communities around tourist destinations, including Borobudur. She continued, "The RTLH renovation program is being carried out at many destinations, not just Borobudur."

"Each renovated house costs between Rp 50 million and Rp 60 million. These funds are used to repair the entire structure, including tiled floors, proper bathrooms, clean water access, and even electricity connections," he explained.

Magelang Regent Grengseng Pamuji appreciated IDM's steps which contributed to alleviating social problems, especially the provision of decent housing for the Borobudur community. 

"I hope we can work together to alleviate poverty in the community, especially regarding housing, as housing is a basic need for the community," he explained.

Magelang Regent Grengseng Pamuji is pushing for a more systematic data collection of RTLH (household housing) in Borobudur Village and the surrounding area, complete with a ranking of needs. This data is expected to form the basis for ongoing collaboration between the local government, the DPRKP (Regional People's Representative Council), and the IDM (Indonesian Village Development Agency).

Grengseng emphasized that the elimination of RTLH cannot be the responsibility of one party. The local government, destination managers, and the community must work together to ensure that the impact of Borobudur's presence is truly felt by local residents.

"I've asked the Borobudur sub-district head, specifically in Borobudur Village, to rank the number of unsuitable houses. We'll work together with the TWC to determine a solution for the future," he said.

Since the program was launched, InJourney Destination Management has provided 52 habitable houses in DIY and Central Java, with details: Magelang Regency with 18 houses, Klaten Regency with 15 houses, Sleman Regency with 10 houses and Gunungkidul Regency with 9 houses.

"Our commitment to sustainability focuses not only on preserving the temple's physical appearance, but also on strengthening the Sustainable Tourism Ecosystem. For us, the success of a tourist destination is measured by the positive impact it has on the residents living nearby," concluded Febrina Intan.