By: Adinda Dewi )*
With the election of Prabowo Subianto as President and Gibran Rakabuming Raka as Vice President, the development of the Indonesian Capital City (IKN) in East Kalimantan has gained new momentum that is expected to bring significant changes to Indonesia. This project not only focuses on moving the center of government from Jakarta to IKN, but is also committed to prioritizing the principles of sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity in every stage. This hope is in line with the government’s grand vision to create a more balanced and sustainable Indonesia, with the aim of improving the quality of life of the community and ensuring equitable growth throughout the country.
Since its launch, the IKN project has become one of the strategic agendas that has attracted the attention of many parties, both domestically and abroad. The development of the IKN is not only an effort to move the center of government, but also reflects an effort to create a more modern and integrated city, which can be a model for other cities in Indonesia and the world. This includes the creation of quality public spaces, the use of the latest technology, and the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable infrastructure.
Deputy Minister of Public Works (PU), Diana Kusumastuti, emphasized that President Prabowo has given clear instructions to continue the IKN development project. She explained that the President’s direction will be implemented immediately, especially considering the large amount of infrastructure that has been built at the IKN location. Diana stated that the IKN must be continued and completed, and the existing infrastructure will be utilized immediately. This shows the government’s seriousness and commitment to realizing the ideals of developing the IKN as a modern and integrated center of government.
On the same occasion, Minister of Public Works, Dodi Hanggono, emphasized the PU Ministry’s support for President Prabowo’s vision and mission, especially regarding the continuation of the IKN development. Dodi added that the ministry will carry out maintenance on several parts that need improvement and adjustment to the vision set forth by the President. He promised to provide further details after coordinating with the relevant team. This commitment signifies that all elements of the government are ready to work together to ensure that this project runs according to plan and produces maximum results for the community.
President Prabowo previously emphasized his determination to continue the IKN development project in the first plenary meeting at the IKN. In this forum, Prabowo expressed his commitment to continuing the project that had been started by his predecessor, Joko Widodo, with the hope of completing it. Prabowo stated that Joko Widodo had taken on a historical role as an initiator, and he wanted to continue and complete the project. This emphasized the importance of continuity in the development program, where every leader must be able to continue and perfect what has been achieved previously.
The IKN project is one of the national strategic initiatives that is expected to support economic growth and equitable development outside Java. By moving the center of government from Jakarta to the IKN, the government is trying to overcome the problem of population density in Jakarta which has reached a critical point and create more equitable development throughout Indonesia. This step is expected to reduce the burden borne by Jakarta as the center of government and business, while providing opportunities for other regions to develop. Thus, the IKN is expected to be the starting point for more balanced and sustainable economic growth.
In line with the President’s direction, the PUPR Ministry will move quickly to complete this project under the Red and White Cabinet. The vision of the IKN as the center of Indonesia’s future government will be realized by prioritizing efficiency and quality of development. Through the concept of sustainable development, the government hopes that the IKN can be a model for the development of other cities in Indonesia. This includes various aspects, from urban spatial planning, natural resource management, to the creation of environmentally friendly public spaces.
In the planning of the IKN, the government is committed to using the latest technology in infrastructure development. The concept of a smart city is one of the main focuses, where information and communication technology will be integrated to create an efficient transportation system, sustainable energy management, and better public services. With the application of smart technology, it is hoped that the IKN can become a model of a future city that is able to attract investment and quality workers, create new jobs and improve the quality of life of the community.
With a strong commitment and the right strategic steps, IKN is expected to be a symbol of progress and sustainability, and realize the hope for a better future for all Indonesian people. The success of this project is expected to be an example for similar projects in the future and show the world that Indonesia is capable of managing and developing modern cities that are oriented towards sustainability and public welfare. That way, IKN will not only be a new center of government, but also a center of innovation, creativity, and collaboration that will drive Indonesia towards a new, brighter era.
)* The author is a contributor to the Jendela Baca Institute
