By: Zulfikar Borneo*
President Joko Widodo’s decision to work from the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) for over a month is a bold step that demonstrates a full commitment to the development of Indonesia’s new capital. Starting from September 10 until October 19, 2024, the President will undertake various state duties in the National Capital City (IKN). This sends a strong message that the facilities in IKN, especially in the Central Government Core Area (KIPP), are ready for use.
The presidential office that will be used for a longer period also serves as a positive signal for the continuation of the IKN project, especially in efforts to realize a sustainable and modern future city for Indonesia. During this period, President Jokowi will not only be in the office but also carry out various government duties, including cabinet meetings and work visits to other regions.
President Jokowi’s decision to work in the IKN is certainly supported by adequate infrastructure readiness. The Minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), Basuki Hadimuljono, stated that the facilities in the National Capital City (IKN) are now more prepared compared to the Independence Day ceremony on August 17th. The completed facilities include the State Palace and the Garuda Palace, which are ready to serve as centers for state activities similar to the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta.
One of the major projects that has been expedited is the IKN Airport. With a runway measuring 2,200 meters, this airport is already capable of accommodating aircraft, facilitating access for the President and state guests. The readiness of this airport is a strategic step in supporting mobility, not only for officials but also for logistics and development projects in the IKN.
Aside from that, basic needs such as clean water at KIPP have also been ensured to be ready. Drinking water fountains add to the list of public facilities that are worthy of use. This water testing was conducted by Sucofindo, which ensures its quality meets international health standards. The certificate obtained demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing high-quality public services in the National Capital City.
The Presidential Office in the National Capital City has also been equipped with accommodation facilities for the President and the ministers. A total of 14 official residences are already available, and in the near future, there will be an addition of 6 more units. The target is to complete 36 official residences by the end of 2024. For state guests arriving at the IKN, the Nusantara Hotel with a capacity of 200 rooms has also been prepared. If needed, Balikpapan, as the nearest city to the IKN, can also be easily accessed via the toll road, taking only about an hour.
This arrangement not only reflects the readiness of physical infrastructure but also the logistical and administrative preparedness to support the smooth functioning of the government in the IKN. This indicates that development in the IKN has entered a more mature phase, where various public and governmental facilities can already be utilized optimally.
The Special Staff of the Minister of Public Works and Public Housing, Endra S. Atmawidjaja, stated that the facilities in the National Capital City (IKN) have been thoroughly prepared, both in terms of infrastructure and accommodation, to ensure the comfort of the President and other officials. This statement further emphasizes the physical and technical readiness present in the IKN.
In addition, the President’s office being located in the IKN until the end of his term shows that the IKN project is not just a political promise, but part of Jokowi’s grand vision to realize a more decentralized, modern, and inclusive Indonesia. IKN is designed as a symbol of the nation’s progress, and the presence of the President there signifies that this project is on the right track.
With the President’s office located in the IKN, public attention towards the development of this project will increase even more. This also provides an opportunity for the government to show the public that the new capital city (IKN) is not just a physical project, but also one that has broad social, economic, and environmental dimensions. In the context of sustainable development, the new capital city (IKN) is designed with the concept of a green city, where energy efficiency, waste management, and environmentally friendly infrastructure are top priorities.
The Secretary of the IKN Authority, Achmad Jaka Santos Adiwijaya, explained that the President’s office in IKN will have a positive impact on the image of IKN as a new government center. This decision can also encourage investors and the public to have greater confidence in the development of the new capital city.
The President’s presence in the National Capital City (IKN) is also expected to encourage more investments, both domestic and foreign, to support infrastructure development and the city’s ecosystem. Furthermore, the President’s office in IKN serves as an important moment to promote IKN as a modern, safe, and world-class government center.
With increasingly complete infrastructure, from airports, clean water, to accommodation facilities, the new capital city is now ready to become a new center of government. This decision also serves as evidence that development in the new capital city (IKN) continues as planned, and this project has entered a more advanced phase. Community support for the IKN project is also crucial to ensure the success of this grand vision. With the facilities in place, attention to the sustainability of this project must be maintained so that the IKN can become a modern, inclusive, and environmentally friendly city, in line with Indonesia’s aspirations for a more advanced and prosperous future.
The writer is a student originally from East Kalimantan.