Benefits of Nusantara – The New Capital of Indonesia
Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous country, will embarked on a historic journey by establishing a new capital, Nusantara. At Indonesia’s Independence Day on August 17, 2024, the country’s new capital city will be inaugurated, moving from Jakarta in Java to East Kalimantan, on the island of Borneo. This bold initiative aims to address the challenges posed by overpopulation, traffic congestion, and natural disasters in the current capital, Jakarta.
President Joko Widodo plans to host Indonesia’s 79th independence day celebrations in Nusantara in August 2024, where core infrastructure for an initial 500,000 residents will have been completed
The term first appears in medieval Javanese literature, notably the 14th century Javanese Majapahit court chronicle, and the Pararaton, which documents the history of the kings of Singhasari and Majapahit in eastern Java.
Derived from the Old Javanese nūsa, “island”, and antara “outer”, nusantara means outer or other islands
The government’s decision to move the capital affords an exciting opportunity to reimagine the future and unlock following benefits for the Indonesian nation:
- One of the primary advantages of establishing a new capital is the potential to alleviate the overwhelming burden faced by Jakarta. With a population of over 10 million people, Jakarta has been struggling to accommodate the rapid urbanization and migration that has taken place over the years. The strain on infrastructure, public services, and utilities has become increasingly evident.
- By relocating the capital, the government seeks to redistribute the population and ease the pressure on Jakarta’s resources, allowing for better development and improved quality of life for its residents.
- Moreover, the new capital offers a blank canvas for urban planning and sustainable development. Over the years, Jakarta has faced significant challenges in terms of environmental degradation.
- The opportunity to build Nusantara as capital provides a chance to implement innovative designs that prioritize sustainability and resilience against natural disasters. With careful planning, Indonesia can create a model city that serves as a beacon for other urban centers around the world.
- In addition to the environmental benefits, the establishment of a new capital holds tremendous economic potential. The relocation project is expected to drive a surge in infrastructure development, creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth.
- The construction of new roads, bridges, airports, and other essential facilities will not only enhance connectivity within the country but also attracted foreign investments. This also created a ripple effect on various industries, promoting entrepreneurship, increasing tourism, and bolstering the national economy.
- Another crucial benefit of moving the capital is the potential to preserve Jakarta’s cultural heritage. As the city faces rapid development, many historic landmarks and cultural sites are under threat of being lost. By relocating the capital, the government can ensure the preservation of Jakarta’s culturally significant areas and monuments, allowing future generations to connect with their rich history.
- The decision to move the capital also holds immense potential for job creation and economic stimulation.
In conclusion, Indonesia’s decision to relocate its capital represents a significant turning point in the nation’s history. As discussed earlier it offers numerous benefits, including relieving the burden on Jakarta, promoting sustainable development, reducing regional inequality, preserving cultural heritage, and boosting the economy. While challenges lie ahead, the potential for a brighter future for Indonesia is vast. The successful establishment of Indonesia’s new capital will undoubtedly set an inspiring precedent for urban development and planning worldwide.
