By: Gavin Asadit )*
The development of the new Indonesian Capital City (IKN) in East Kalimantan Province has become one of the strategic projects of the Indonesian Government in recent years. The development aims to realize an even Indonesia (Indonesia Centric), IKN Nusantara is designed to be a more modern and sustainable center of government. The development of IKN Nusantara seems to have a very large influence on the surrounding community, namely increasing welfare. Increasing local welfare is a form of positive impact from the development of IKN, one of which is the increase in the local community’s economy which has increased significantly.
The development of the IKN as an agent of change that can create opportunities to improve the economy throughout Indonesia. The IKN as a symbol of national identity and a new center of economic gravity that can provide a multiplier effect by becoming the epicenter of even growth in the territory of Indonesia and the development of the IKN can add more than 50% of trade flows in the territory of Indonesia.
IKN is not just a relocation of government offices, but also an investment in the development of the surrounding area. The development of IKN will open up opportunities for property development, including housing, shopping centers, and business complexes. This has a positive impact, especially for local communities who will benefit from economic growth around IKN.
One of the main positive impacts of the development of the IKN is the improvement of infrastructure in East Kalimantan. This project involves the construction of highways, bridges, and other transportation facilities that not only facilitate mobility to the IKN, but also improve accessibility in the surrounding areas. The surrounding community can now enjoy better infrastructure, which facilitates their economic and social activities. The improved quality of roads also reduces travel time and transportation costs, which has a direct impact on local economic efficiency and welfare.
Meanwhile, Acting Governor of East Kalimantan, Akmal Malik said that the construction of the Indonesian Capital City brought millions of residents to East Kalimantan, this can improve the food sector in East Kalimantan so that the food economy around the East Kalimantan region, especially around the IKN, can grow rapidly and be able to meet the basic needs of the IKN community and its surroundings. In addition, the Chairperson of the Indonesian Entrepreneurs Association (Apindo) of East Kalimantan said that the presence of the IKN has the potential to center Kalimantan as a spotlight throughout Indonesia for investment so that it can improve the economy for the area around the IKN, especially for the local community.
With the presence of the IKN Nusantara, many new economic opportunities are open to the surrounding community. The development and operation of the IKN creates jobs in various sectors, including construction, services, and other supporting industries. This increase in employment not only reduces unemployment but also increases community income. Small and medium enterprises around the IKN also benefit from the increased demand for goods and services.
The IKN project also has a positive impact in terms of social and educational development. The construction of educational facilities such as schools and training centers is part of the regional development plan. The surrounding community now has better access to quality education, which in turn opens up opportunities for the younger generation to gain the skills and knowledge needed to compete in the job market.
Health facilities have also improved as part of the IKN project. New hospitals and clinics that have been built not only serve workers and residents in the IKN area, but also the surrounding community. With better and more affordable health facilities, the quality of life of the community has improved significantly. Health programs and outreach activities have also been introduced to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of health.
Furthermore, Secretary General of the DPP Indonesian Lecturers Association, Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nur Rianto Al Arif said that the development of the IKN does not only include physical infrastructure, but also educational and health facilities. The construction of schools, universities, hospitals, and health centers around the IKN will have a long-term positive impact by increasing access to education and health services for the community so that it will support significant local economic growth.
On the other hand, IKN Nusantara is designed with strict principles of sustainability and environmental protection. Efforts to preserve forests and the surrounding environment, as well as the application of environmentally friendly technology, have a positive impact on the local ecosystem. Greening and environmental maintenance programs not only protect natural habitats but also contribute to the quality of life of the community by providing healthy and clean green spaces.
The development of IKN Nusantara is not only about the relocation of the capital city, but also about creating a broad positive impact for the surrounding community. Infrastructure improvement, economic growth, social development, health improvement, and environmental protection are some aspects that show that this project brings significant benefits. With this success, IKN Nusantara can be considered a successful example of how a large project can contribute to the welfare of the community and the development of the region as a whole.
)* The author is an observer of social and community issues
