By: Arhadi Gunawan
The government has launched the Nusantara National Capital (IKN) development project as part of its strategic vision to advance the nation. IKN is not just a move of the center of government from Jakarta to East Kalimantan, but also a real step to create equitable development throughout Indonesia.
Apart from that, the construction of the IKN is also a symbol of national unity and integrity. By moving the capital city to the center of Indonesia, it is hoped that there will be equitable development that is not only concentrated on the island of Java.
IKN, which is located in North Penajam Paser Regency, East Kalimantan, is now the center of world attention. In the midst of this spotlight, public attention was focused on a magnificent architectural work that would become a symbol of national pride: the Garuda Palace. More than just a building, the Garuda Palace is a manifestation of the combination of art, science and technology designed by the sons and daughters of the Indonesian nation, making it a new icon in the history of Indonesian architecture.
Garuda, which has long been the symbol of Indonesia, was chosen as the main inspiration for the design of the Presidential Palace at IKN. This symbol depicts the philosophy of “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika,” which reflects unity in the diversity of cultures, customs and religions that exist in Indonesia. Garuda Palace not only stands out as a physical building, but also as a symbol that strengthens national identity and the spirit of diversity.
With a land area of 55.7 hectares and a site area of 334,200 square meters, Garuda Palace is the first building built at IKN. The existence of this palace marks a new era in the history of Indonesian architecture, showing that Indonesia is capable of creating great works that are recognized not only domestically but also internationally.
More than just a tourist attraction, the Garuda Palace reflects the nation’s dedication in developing the Indonesian capital as the center of government and a new tourism icon. The existence of this palace is a strategic step that not only strengthens Indonesia’s position in the eyes of the world, but also shows the nation’s commitment to preserving and promoting Indonesian culture.
IKN, with the Garuda Palace as one of its centers, is expected to become a city that reflects Indonesia’s future vision. Not only as the center of government, but also as a city that prioritizes cultural values, sustainability and innovation.
As the main landmark at IKN, the Garuda Palace will become one of the most recognized Indonesian architectural icons in the world. His presence will be a silent witness to the development and progress of the Indonesian nation, as well as a symbol of determination and enthusiasm to continue to progress and develop.
In commemoration of the 79th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia, a historic procession will be held on Saturday, August 10 2024. For the first time, the Red and White flag and the text of the Proclamation of Independence will be displayed from the National Monument (Monas), Jakarta, to IKN in East Kalimantan.
The Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Heru Budi Hartono, will hand over these two important symbols to the 2023 Purna Paskibraka Team. This team, which consists of selected young people, is ready to carry out this noble task with full responsibility.
Kachina Ozora, a member of the Purna Paskibraka from Central Kalimantan Province, is believed to be the bearer of the Red and White flag. Meanwhile, Keyla Azzahra Purnama from South Sumatra Province will bring the text of the proclamation. Both were chosen not only because of their achievements, but also as representatives of Indonesia’s diverse cultural backgrounds and regions.
This year’s carnival route is different from previous years which usually ends at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta. This time, the procession will cross a number of important points in Jakarta, starting from Monas, passing through Jalan Thamrin, HI Roundabout, Jalan Gatot Subroto, Cawang, to Halim Perdanakusuma Airport.
From Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, the flag and text of the proclamation will be flown to IKN using a Boeing aircraft belonging to the Indonesian Air Force. Upon arrival at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport, Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, the symbols of independence will be taken to the IKN State Palace.
The task of carrying the Red and White flag to the IKN State Palace will be continued by Naila Aulita Alqubra Sinapoy from Banten. Meanwhile, Lilly Wenda from Papua Mountains will bring the text of the proclamation. These two daughters of the nation will lead the carnival procession which will carve out new history in commemoration of Indonesia’s independence.
Deputy for Protocol, Press and Media of the Presidential Secretariat, Yusuf Permana, explained that this carnival procession is not only a symbol of respect for the history and struggle of the nation, but also reflects the determination to maintain the unity and integrity of Indonesia. “This is new history. “For the first time, the Red and White flag and the text of the proclamation were transferred to IKN,” said Yusuf.
The Red and White Flag and the text of the proclamation are scheduled to arrive at IKN on the same day, 10 August 2024. Upon arrival at IKN, the flag will be handed over by President Joko Widodo to Paskibraka to be hoisted at the IKN State Palace on 17 August 2024. The raising of this flag will mark the peak commemoration of the 79th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia, which also symbolizes the transfer of the center of government and a new chapter in the nation’s history.
The IKN project is a smart step for the government, because there is a symbol of unity and prosperity which will immediately be implemented through equitable development. Overall, the IKN project is a strategic step to unite the nation. By equalizing development, improving community welfare, and strengthening national identity, IKN will become a symbol of the progress of a united and sovereign Indonesia.
*) The author is a student from Bogor living in Jakarta