Indonesia faces a persistent challenge in waste management. In 2023, the country generated a staggering 69.9 million tons of waste, with a significant portion, 33.72%, inadequately managed. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for effective waste management solutions. While the call to dispose of waste responsibly has been echoed for years, the lack of strict enforcement and consequences for irresponsible waste disposal has hampered progress.
The problem is further compounded by the inadequate sorting of waste, leading to overflowing landfills and environmental hazards. Overloaded landfills pose significant risks, including fires, leachate contamination of surrounding areas, and other detrimental consequences.
This critical issue extends across Indonesia, from bustling cities to smaller towns, highlighting the need for a collective effort involving not just experts but also active community participation.
Waste pickers, often overlooked and undervalued, play a crucial role in waste management. They tirelessly collect and sort waste, yet their contributions often go unrecognized, and their livelihoods remain precarious.
Enter Siti Salamah, a young woman who recognized the plight of waste pickers and the dire need for a more sustainable waste management system. Her journey began in 2015 with the establishment of “Rumah Pohon,” previously known as “Taman Magrib Mengaji,” a space dedicated to providing non-formal education and spiritual guidance for waste pickers. At the young age of 27, Siti Salamah embarked on this mission to empower waste pickers and improve their lives.
Transforming Lives Through Education and Skill Development

Siti Salamah understood that empowering waste pickers required more than just financial assistance. It demanded a shift in mindset and equipping them with the skills and knowledge to improve their lives. She believed that education and skill development were essential for their long-term well-being and economic independence.
Waste Solution Hub: A Technological Revolution in Waste Management
In 2018, Siti Salamah, along with a group of like-minded individuals, established Waste Solution Hub, a pioneering initiative dedicated to providing integrated waste management solutions. This innovative program leverages technology to streamline waste management processes and involves multiple stakeholders.
Waste Solution Hub sets itself apart from other waste management programs by prioritizing the well-being of waste pickers. Their approach aims to shorten the existing waste management chain, which typically involves multiple intermediaries, resulting in a significant reduction in profit margins for waste pickers. WasteHub enables waste pickers to receive a higher price for their collected materials, directly impacting their income and improving their livelihoods.
Empowering Waste Pickers and Building a Sustainable Future
Waste Solution Hub’s initiatives extend beyond financial empowerment. They also focus on end-to-end waste management in residential clusters, promoting sustainable practices. Consultations are provided to encourage less waste and even zero waste practices. The program also offers intensive training for waste pickers, equipping them with additional skills and opportunities.
A Social Innovation with Tangible Results

Waste Solution Hub’s efforts have yielded remarkable results. They have educated over 23,435 individuals through their programs, managed 4,388 kilograms of waste, empowered over 1,222 waste pickers in Tangerang Selatan, and engaged 171 volunteers.
The program has significantly improved the well-being of its waste picker partners. During the pandemic, Waste Solution Hub collected and distributed 5,006 food packages to informal workers, including waste pickers, providing vital support during a time of crisis.
Waste Solution Hub has not only improved the lives of waste pickers but has also elevated their status within the community. Their partners are trained to work professionally, ensuring their future success. Waste Solution Hub provides ongoing support through training, scholarships, education, and skill development programs.
Vision for a Sustainable Future
Waste Solution Hub has ambitious goals for the future. They aim to:
– Partner with 10,000 waste pickers
– Increase their income by 100%- Manage 1,000 tons of waste daily
– Produce 1,000 recycled products
– Establish over 10 recycling and learning centers across Indonesia
Recognition and Inspiration
Siti Salamah’s unwavering dedication to waste management and waste picker empowerment earned her recognition at the national level. She received the prestigious 12th SATU Indonesia Awards in the Group category, representing five areas: health, education, environment, entrepreneurship, and technology.
Her story serves as an inspiration for young people across Indonesia and beyond. It demonstrates the power of innovation and community engagement in addressing critical social and environmental issues.
A Legacy of Change

Siti Salamah’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of individuals who dare to dream big and make a difference. Her dedication to empowering waste pickers and revolutionizing waste management in Indonesia has created a lasting impact. Her story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to embrace sustainable practices and build a brighter future for all.
Waste Solution Hub’s innovative approach to waste management, coupled with its commitment to empowering waste pickers, provides a model for other communities seeking to address the critical issue of waste. As Indonesia continues to grapple with waste management challenges, Siti Salamah’s story serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible through collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and a commitment to social justice.
Siti Salamah’s dedication to empowering waste pickers and revolutionizing waste management in Indonesia has earned her recognition. In 2021, she was awarded the Satu Indonesia Awards for her impactful work. Her story highlights the transformative power of individuals who dare to dream big and make a difference. Waste Solution Hub, with its innovative approach and commitment to empowering waste pickers, provides a model for other communities facing waste management challenges. Siti Salamah’s achievements serve as a powerful reminder that change is possible through collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and a commitment to social justice.

Dian Ravi. Muslimah travel blogger Indonesia. Jakarta. Part time blogger, full time day dreamer. Pink addict, but also love toska. See, even I cannot decide what’s my favorite color is.Mau bikin bahagia, cukup ajak jalan dan foto-foto.