PORTALJABAR, BEKASI REGENCY - The Setu I Community Health Center (Puskesmas Setu I) introduced the BENING innovation to maintain the quality of public drinking water based on examinations and education on (24/7/2026).

The BENING (Joint Education and Stickering of Guaranteed Piped Water Quality) program strengthens the development of drinking water providers so that water distribution remains safe.

This innovation emerged from a 2023 mapping study that revealed low levels of independent water quality inspections by water providers.

Of the 35 community-based drinking water providers in five villages within the Setu I Community Health Center's working area, only 11.4 percent have conducted independent checks.

Young Sanitarian Expert of the Setu I Health Center UPTD Sri Werdiningsih Retno Asmara said BENING uses laboratory results as a basis for improving water quality.

"Through the BENING innovation, we use laboratory test results as an educational instrument, a basis for decision-making, and to encourage behavioral changes among providers in maintaining the quality of water distributed to the public," he said.

Sri explained that BENING combines environmental health inspections, water quality checks, providing test result stickers, technical recommendations, and mentoring.

The program also utilizes communication via WhatsApp Groups as well as face-to-face meetings to ensure ongoing follow-up.

When water parameters such as manganese are found to not meet the requirements, officers provide technical recommendations to the organizer.

These recommendations include cleaning the pipe network, draining the tower, and maintaining water distribution facilities.

"Mentoring was provided until the organizers understood the corrective measures. As a result, subsequent inspections showed improved water quality after the technical recommendations were implemented," he said.

In addition to improving water quality, BENING strengthens supervision through the involvement of community health centers, Regional Health Laboratories, village governments, health cadres, and water providers.

Improving drinking water services also has an impact on customer satisfaction and supports social activities from customer payment management.

The funds are used for operational assistance for prayer rooms, construction of neighborhood roads, maintenance of sports fields, assistance to orphans, and community activities.

"BENING's innovation not only improves water quality but also benefits the community by strengthening social awareness," he concluded.

For the benefits provided, BENING won the 2025 Bekasi Regency Regional Innovation Award, the 2025 Bekasi Regency Innovative ASN Award, and the Intellectual Property Rights (HAKI) Award.

(Bekasi Regency Communications and Information Service/bhf)