Indonesian President Starts Working from New Presidential Palace in Future Capital

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ICARO Media Group
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29/07/2024 19h46

Article: Outgoing Indonesian President Joko Widodo has begun his work from the newly constructed presidential palace in the country's ambitious future capital, known as IKN (Nusantara). With just a month remaining until the planned Independence Day celebrations on August 17th, authorities are working tirelessly to complete various key infrastructure projects in the capital city located in East Kalimantan province on Borneo island.

President Widodo expressed his excitement as he received officials for meetings in his new office at the presidential palace. His first agenda item included meetings with executives of the Nusantara development authority and provincial leaders, emphasizing the ongoing progress of the IKN. Thousands of workers are diligently racing against time to ensure the completion of infrastructure projects, and President Widodo is keen to avoid any disruptions to the city's development progress.

The president was optimistic that the new "Garuda Presidential Palace" would serve as a magnificent backdrop for the upcoming Independence Day ceremony, symbolizing the official transfer of the capital from Jakarta to Nusantara. Nevertheless, concerns have been raised about the relocation plan due to slow construction progress and missed deadlines.

Most of the buildings in the new city remain unfinished, with the state palace approximately 88% complete and several ministry buildings only partially usable. The overall estimated cost for building the new capital is $33 billion, with only 20% of the budget coming from the state. President Widodo's administration has heavily relied on private sector investments to develop essential infrastructure and public facilities, while the state budget focuses on basic infrastructure, buildings, and utilities in the government's core area.

In an effort to attract investment, President Widodo recently signed a presidential regulation granting investors land rights for up to 190 years in the future capital. The government is also actively working on increasing the city's power capacity, aiming to procure an additional 40 megawatts. Currently, a solar power plant provides 10 megawatts, while a nearby reservoir ensures there is an ample supply of clean drinking water for the city.

Despite the progress made so far, the official relocation of the capital is pending the issuance of a presidential decree. Until the decree is signed, Jakarta remains the country's capital. President Widodo has hinted that the decree might be issued by President-elect Prabowo Subianto, who is set to be inaugurated on October 20th.

As the clock ticks towards the Independence Day celebrations, all eyes are on the completion of the new capital city and the realization of Indonesia's ambitious plans for the future.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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