This policy brief provides an overview of the challenges faced in revitalizing the Citarum River, which has remained polluted despite numerous efforts and investments since 1989. The complexity of Citarum River governance is attributed to various technical and non-technical issues influenced by local conditions, government systems, and resource availability. Drawing on empirical findings from Bandung Regency and Cimahi City, recommendations are proposed to address governance problems hindering policy implementation. These include addressing top-down coordination, resolving conflicts of interest between the public and the market, adopting a comprehensive approach to river governance, and ensuring sustained commitment from local officials and community participation. Three governance perspectives are suggested: moving beyond command-and-control, facilitating non-state actor participation, and bridging the gap between science, the state, and society. Six enabling factors for effective policy implementation are identified, including shared problem awareness, political and financial commitments, law enforcement, committed leaders, boundary-spanning organizations, and strong community participation. These recommendations aim to guide future actions in improving the governance of the Citarum River and its revitalization efforts.