By: Fitri Lubis*)
The progress of infrastructure development in the new Capital City (IKN), Nusantara, has shown a rapid increase in recent months. Various strategic projects being undertaken by the government in collaboration with several private sectors have had a tangible impact on the development of the areas that have become the focus of national attention.
Sources from the government environment reveal that several projects, such as main roads, inter-regional connecting bridges, and other public facilities, have successfully completed several important stages. Although challenges in terms of weather and logistics temporarily hindered the work process, this did not diminish the commitment of the contractors and stakeholders to continue pursuing the established targets.
The central government, through the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR), is reported to be continuously conducting strict monitoring of the progress of each ongoing project. This is done to ensure that the quality and speed of development remain in line with the long-term vision of the IKN project, which is expected to represent Indonesia in the future.
The Deputy for Funding and Investment of the IKN Authority, Agung Wicaksono, reaffirmed the Indonesian government’s commitment to the continuation of the development of Nusantara, particularly focusing on infrastructure development and investments that will be carried on by the subsequent administration. He highlights that the celebration of Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day on August 17, 2024, marks an important milestone that signifies the transformation of the IKN into a New Economic Hub designed to expand economic growth and be passed down to future generations. It describes IKN as a “City in the making and a dream in progress,” which is a city that exemplifies the principles of sustainable modern urban development, innovation, and inclusivity.
The Indonesian government’s commitment to ensuring that this monumental project continues, regardless of changes in administration, highlights the importance of the National Capital City (IKN) in the blueprint for the nation’s future. The affirmation that infrastructure development and investment in the Archipelago will proceed instills confidence in investors and the public that this project is not merely a short-term political idea, but a strategic step for the long term.
The phrase “City in the making and dream in progress” reflects that Nusantara is a city being built not only with physical materials but also with a grand vision that involves sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. In the midst of rapid urbanization and global climate change, Nusantara strives to be an example of a modern city that prioritizes not only economic growth but also environmental balance and social welfare.
The Minister of Finance, Sri Mulyani, appreciated the progress of the development of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) in Penajam Paser Utara Regency, East Kalimantan, which has shown significant acceleration since the beginning of 2024. He said that the National Capital City (IKN) is increasingly developing and starting to show real changes with the support of public funds and the involvement of many parties, such as the construction of the boulevard on the National Axis.
What Sri Mulyani conveyed about the acceleration of development since the beginning of 2024 reflects the government’s commitment to prioritize the IKN as a national project. The presence of the boulevard on the National Axis serves as an important symbol representing well-thought-out infrastructure planning that is focused on the quality of life of the surrounding community. The facility is not just a road, but also a representation of the integration of public spaces that can encourage social interaction and economic activities in the future.
Public budgeting plays a vital role in the success of this project, but what is even more important is the participation of various elements, both from the private sector and the broader community. With this synergy, the development of the new capital city is not just a government project, but also a shared responsibility of all the people of Indonesia.
The steps taken by the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) in building infrastructure in the National Capital City (IKN) are also worthy of appreciation. The presence of facilities like the Boulevard on the National Axis serves as concrete evidence of the government’s efforts to focus not only on aesthetics but also on the functionality of the city that can support the lives of its citizens. With this facility, the new capital city is projected to become a center for social, economic, and cultural activities that can attract attention from all corners of Indonesia and even the world.
The Director General of Regional Autonomy at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Akmal Malik, revealed that the grand plan for the development of Kalimantan is becoming clearer, with the presence of the National Capital (IKN), supported by a superhub economy from surrounding cities, including North Kalimantan, which is currently preparing the largest Green Industrial Zone. He added that the presence of the National Capital (IKN) has been a blessing for East Kalimantan, evidenced by the rapid economic growth and increased investment interest since the establishment of IKN in 2019. Akmal also emphasized that the IKN serves as an important instrument in realizing the fifth principle, which is social justice for all Indonesian people.
With the increasingly massive development of infrastructure in the new capital city, it not only becomes a symbol of Indonesia’s future but also a legacy for future generations who will be able to enjoy the results of more equitable development. It also represents hope for the realization of a modern and environmentally friendly new capital city that is getting closer to reality.
*) The author is an Observer of Digital Economy at the Innovation Foundation.