Jakarta. The Jakarta Provincial Government has begun revitalizing the Barito area in South Jakarta, aiming to convert it into a family-friendly green space. As part of the plan, the cluster of long-standing pet shops in the area is being cleared out, with traders set to be relocated to a new, modern animal trade center.

The revamped green space, to be named Taman Bendera Pusaka (Heritage Flag Park), is expected to become a new city landmark. Authorities say the relocation process is being carried out with compassion, ensuring that affected traders are supported throughout the transition.

“We are prioritizing a humane approach in relocating the traders and have prepared the Jakarta Animal Center in Lenteng Agung as a clean, modern facility for pet trade,” said Elisabeth Ratu Rante Allo, Head of Jakarta's Industry, Trade, Cooperatives, and SMEs Agency, on Tuesday.

The initial relocation is being coordinated by Pasar Jaya, the city-owned enterprise that manages Jakarta’s traditional markets. Traders will be given three months of free kiosk rent and allowed to choose their preferred location in the new site.

“These measures are designed not only to support urban spatial planning but also to ensure the sustainability of the traders’ businesses,” Elisabeth said in a press release.

The Jakarta Animal Center, to be built on a 7,000-square-meter plot in Lenteng Agung, will not only serve as a commercial hub for pets but also as an educational tourism destination that blends recreation with environmental awareness.

“This center is expected to become more than a marketplace. It will be a learning and leisure space for families and animal lovers,” she added.

Meanwhile, Fajar Sauri, Head of the Jakarta Parks and Urban Forest Agency, said that the redevelopment of Barito will integrate three major parks in South Jakarta -- Taman Langsat, Taman Ayodya, and Taman Barito -- into a 6-hectare super park under the name Taman Bendera Pusaka.

The new park will include:

• Link bridges between parks
• Jogging tracks
• Children's playgrounds
• Multipurpose spaces
• An open-air amphitheater for cultural and artistic performances

“All of this is designed to offer an inclusive, pleasant, and accessible public space for the community,” Fajar noted. He added that the park is part of Jakarta's broader commitment to becoming a greener, more sustainable, and resilient city.

Urban development expert Yayat Supriatna praised the government’s approach, which seeks to optimize the use of public land while safeguarding the economic and social rights of existing traders.

“This is not about eviction, but urban reorganization. The government is not neglecting residents; instead, it is providing better options for a better future,” he said.

Yayat added that the park’s location is highly strategic, situated in a key commercial and urban hub.

“This park is expected to become a new magnet for the city -- combining recreation, commerce, and public activity. It will be an oasis in the heart of a business zone,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of a 3D approach in urban design -- Density, Diversity, and Design. Barito’s high population density necessitates additional green space, while the area’s diverse functions -- as a center for commerce, governance, and services -- make the park a well-rounded urban asset.

Lastly, Yayat stressed the need for good accessibility through integrated transport links and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, as well as designated spaces for small and micro businesses (UMKM), which he believes are vital to keeping the park vibrant.