inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto wants a national movement to replace zinc roofs with clay tiles as part of an effort to beautify Indonesia.
He stated that the use of zinc roofs still dominates many homes in Indonesia. He believes this not only makes the environment less attractive but also impacts the comfort of residents as it tends to be hot and rusts easily.
"I want all roofs in Indonesia to use clay tiles. I want this to be a national movement, the project to renovate all of Indonesia," said President Prabowo on Monday (1/2/2026).
The national roofing project will involve the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperative (KDMP) as the spearhead of production. The cooperative will be equipped with a local-scale roofing factory, where the equipment is relatively affordable.
Furthermore, the raw material used is easily obtained, as it comes from clay, which can be mixed with other materials to make it lighter and stronger.
"So, we will equip the Merah Putih Cooperative with a roof tile factory. The raw material for roof tiles is clay, mixed with several other waste materials, making them lightweight and strong," explained President Prabowo.
He revealed that academic studies have shown that coal ash waste can be used as a mixture for roof tiles. According to President Prabowo, this innovation not only produces high-quality roof tiles but also provides a solution for utilizing industrial waste.
President Prabowo emphasized that the roof tile program will receive government support, both before and after implementation. He also invited regional heads to participate in the program.
He hopes that in the next two to three years, Indonesia's image will change and become more beautiful, free from rusty zinc roofs, which are seen as symbols of decline.
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