Sustainable development has become a key focus for many countries, including Indonesia, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). One of the major challenges in metropolitan cities like Jakarta is the inequality in living standards across neighborhoods, especially between dense, low-income settlements and revitalized areas such as community-based vertical housing.
In Kelurahan Menteng Atas, Setiabudi District, lies RW 13, a densely populated area with around 1,522 residents living on just 5,000 square meters of land. Due to economic limitations, it’s common for multiple families to share one small house. This overcrowding creates various issues from lack of access to basic services and poor sanitation leading to health risks, to high rates of violence. The presence of RPTRA (Child-Friendly Integrated Public Spaces) Kebon Sawo since 2017 has brought some positive changes, but many challenges remain.
In contrast, Kampung Susun Akuarium stands as a successful example of community-based revitalization. After enduring forced evictions and prolonged advocacy, this community was rebuilt and has won awards across the Asia Pacific for its participatory, sustainable urban development approach. The co-design model empowered residents to take part in planning and rebuilding, proving that revitalization can be a form of empowerment, not just physical relocation.
Still, transitioning to vertical living presents new challenges: adapting to unfamiliar structures, losing social bonds, and adjusting to new norms. Meanwhile, those who remain in dense settlements view their social solidarity and emotional ties as irreplaceable.
Through this documentary, we aim to capture life in both communities, the ones who stayed, and those who moved to show that the concept of “home” is more than just a building. It holds stories, conflicts, hopes, and social identity. We hope this film becomes a reflective
mirror for the public and policymakers to understand the importance of improving urban living, health equity, and building inclusive cities for all.