By: Damar Jasin)*
In an effort to accelerate the development of the National Capital (IKN) in East Kalimantan, President Prabowo Subianto has shown his full commitment to this national strategic project. The government considers the development of IKN as one of the major steps in equitable development and strengthening infrastructure outside Java. The approach taken includes accelerating physical development, optimizing the budget, and empowering local communities.
The President said that the sustainability of this project is a symbol of modernization and the future of Indonesia. By making the IKN the new center of government, Indonesia is expected to reduce the burden on Jakarta as the center of the economy and politics which has been too heavy. In addition, the IKN is designed to be a sustainable city with a green concept and advanced technology, reflecting Indonesia’s vision as a developed country in 2045.
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) opened up about the fate of the development of the Indonesian Capital City (IKN) in the era of President Prabowo Subianto. According to him, the development of the IKN mega project is continued with a focus on completing the center of government.
The focus on the development of executive, legislative, and judicial facilities is a strategic decision. As a “central for government,” the completion of this infrastructure is the main foundation that must be prepared before the IKN can function fully. This step is also in line with President Prabowo’s direction, which emphasizes that this project is not just a symbol, but an urgent need to reduce the burden on Jakarta as the center of government and economy which is already too crowded.
A number of concrete steps have been taken to support the acceleration of development. The government is focusing on completing basic infrastructure, such as roads, clean water facilities, and electricity networks. This is done so that the IKN area can be ready for use by government agencies in the early stages of the move.
The government is also trying to ensure that this development brings direct benefits to the surrounding community. One step is through the involvement of local workers in construction projects, which aims to improve the skills of the local community. On the other hand, the President also emphasized the importance of respecting local customs and culture, so that the development of the IKN does not ignore the values of local wisdom in East Kalimantan.
Deputy Minister of Public Works and Public Housing, Diana Kusumastuti, revealed that the IKN Access Toll Road Section 2B Kariangu-Simpang Tempadung Segment will be equipped with animal crossings or tunnels. This step not only supports infrastructure development, but also protects the wildlife ecosystem which is an inseparable part of the environment in East Kalimantan.
Large infrastructure developments often face a dilemma between human needs and environmental preservation. The IKN Access Toll Project is a real example where these two aspects can be balanced. The wildlife tunnel is a manifestation of the government’s efforts to ensure that development does not sacrifice the sustainability of existing ecosystems. East Kalimantan, with its rich flora and fauna, is home to various wildlife species that must be protected from the impacts of massive development.
To support financing, the government continues to explore cooperation with various investors, both domestic and international. A regulatory framework is prepared so that investment can run smoothly without sacrificing transparency and accountability. This financing model is expected to not only reduce the burden on the state budget, but also ensure smooth development in the long term.
In addition to the infrastructure aspect, special attention is given to the development of the environmental ecosystem in the IKN area. The government designs IKN as an environmentally friendly city that uses renewable energy and modern public transportation. This area is also projected to become a pilot project for smart city management with an integrated digital system. This step is one of the government’s efforts in facing global challenges related to climate change.
The statement by the Head of the Indonesian Capital Authority (OIKN), Basuki Hadimuljono, that all office and residential buildings in the IKN will be ready for use in December 2024, reflects the government’s great ambition to accelerate the realization of the IKN as the new center of government of Indonesia. With an office complex that includes 16 towers for coordinating ministries and 47 residential towers, this project looks promising. However, the target not only tests the capacity of physical development, but also the commitment to the quality, sustainability, and long-term function of the IKN.
From a technical perspective, completing large-scale infrastructure in a short time requires very efficient planning and execution. The government needs to ensure that development does not only focus on acceleration, but also maintains the quality of construction. The office and residential complexes in the IKN will be the new face of the Indonesian government. If this infrastructure does not meet adequate standards, both in terms of security and comfort, the risks faced will be far greater than the expected benefits.
However, it cannot be denied that the acceleration of the development of the IKN also faces various challenges. Some parties have criticized the potential environmental impacts, the need for efficient budget allocation, and complex cross-agency coordination.
Through various policies and concrete steps, President Prabowo hopes that the development of the IKN can be a symbol of a new awakening for Indonesia. This project is not just physical development, but also reflects the nation’s grand vision to create economic equality, modernization, and sustainability. The IKN is expected to be a legacy for future generations, while also proving that Indonesia is able to manage major changes wisely.
)* the author is a Digital Economic Policy Observer – Nusantara Digital Economic Institute
