By: Nurul Janida )*
The President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, has shown a strong commitment to the continuation of the development of the National Capital City (IKN) in East Kalimantan. The decision not only reflects a long-term vision for Indonesia’s progress, but also serves as a positive signal to the international community regarding the stability and economic potential of the country.
The development of the IKN in East Kalimantan continues to receive great attention from various parties, including government officials involved in this strategic project. One of the things emphasized by the Deputy Minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), Diana Kusumastuti, is the importance of intensive coordination between the PUPR Ministry and the IKN Authority in ensuring smooth development.
Diana explained that the development of the IKN does not only depend on the budget from the APBN, but also involves private investment through the important role of the IKN Authority. Therefore, maintaining investor trust to continue their commitment to the IKN project is very important.
Although the government’s focus may change over time, the government remains committed to ensuring that the development of the IKN can continue according to plan. This is in line with the direction given by President Prabowo Subianto, who wants the development of the IKN to be carried out quickly and on target.
One of the main reasons behind President Prabowo’s commitment to continue the development of the IKN is an effort to reduce Jakarta’s dependence as the center of government, economy, and social activities. By moving the center of government to East Kalimantan, creating a more modern, environmentally friendly city that can become a symbol of Indonesia’s future civilization.
Minister of State Secretary, Prasetyo Hadi, said that President Prabowo has special instructions to build buildings for legislative and judicial institutions in the IKN. The goal is for state institutions to operate more efficiently after the relocation of the IKN. Although the development plan is still in the preparation stage, it is estimated that construction of the building will begin in 2025, with a target completion in 2028.
In the planning of the development of the IKN, President Prabowo also emphasized the importance of implementing high technology and sustainability. The IKN is designed as a smart city, with an efficient and environmentally friendly infrastructure system. This includes the use of renewable energy, a well-integrated transportation system, and sustainable management of natural resources.
Moreover, the development of the IKN also aims to create wider employment opportunities for the community, especially outside Java. So far, most of the employment and industrial sectors are centered in Jakarta, while other regions are still lagging behind in terms of economic development. The IKN can attract investment that will create employment opportunities for local residents, while also encouraging sectors such as tourism, creative industries, and technology.
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), said that the development of business areas is not a top priority. The focus of development is more emphasized on the legislative and judicial ecosystems which are the main pillars to support efficient governance in the IKN. The importance of creating infrastructure that supports state functions, as well as ensuring that this project will provide direct benefits for future government operations.
The statement is useful for continuing the IKN project in the context of creating a sense of security and comfort for domestic and international investors. The development of the IKN is a long-term project that requires confidence from investors that Indonesia has sufficient political and economic stability to ensure the sustainability of the project. With certainty from investors, they will be more confident in investing their capital in various sectors around the IKN.
In addition, the importance of cooperation between the central government, local governments, and the private sector. This collaboration will ensure that the development of the IKN does not only rely on the state budget, but also involves active participation from the private sector that can bring additional expertise, technology, and resources. This approach is also expected to accelerate the realization of development and improve the quality of infrastructure in the IKN.
This is a strategic step to facilitate capital inflow and improve Indonesia’s competitiveness at the global level. With integrated infrastructure and a better quality of life, the IKN will attract global investors who want to participate in Indonesia’s increasingly rapid economic development.
Overall, President Prabowo’s commitment to continue the development of the IKN is a strategic step that will not only have a positive impact on East Kalimantan, but also on all of Indonesia. The development of the IKN is expected to create a modern, environmentally friendly city and become a new center of economy and government. This commitment is real evidence of President Prabowo’s leadership vision that wants to take Indonesia in a better, more advanced, and more competitive direction in the global arena.
With all the challenges that exist, the sustainability of the development of the IKN under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto is proof that Indonesia is ready to face the future with strong confidence and determination.