Indonesia is a vast archipelago nation with more than 17,000 islands and a population of over 270 million people. It is also home to Jakarta, the capital city that is notorious for its traffic congestion, pollution, and vulnerability to flooding and earthquakes. That is why the Indonesian government has decided to relocate the capital to a new site in the island of Kalimantan, also known as Borneo.
Kalimantan is the third-largest island in the world, and the Indonesian part covers about 73% of its area. It is rich in natural resources, such as coal, oil, gas, timber, and minerals. It also hosts some of the most diverse and endangered ecosystems on the planet, including rainforests, peatlands, mangroves, and coral reefs. Kalimantan is home to many indigenous communities that have lived in harmony with nature for centuries.
The new capital will be built in the province of East Kalimantan, near the cities of Balikpapan and Samarinda. The location was chosen for its strategic position, relatively low risk of natural disasters, and existing infrastructure and facilities. The government plans to develop about 180,000 hectares of land for the new capital, which will accommodate up to 1.5 million people. The project is expected to cost about $33 billion and take about 10 years to complete.
The government claims that the new capital will be a smart, green, and sustainable city that will showcase Indonesia's vision and identity as a modern and progressive nation. The design will incorporate elements of local culture and architecture, as well as advanced technology and innovation. The new capital will also aim to preserve and restore the environment, by using renewable energy sources, reducing carbon emissions, managing waste and water resources, and protecting biodiversity.
However, the relocation plan has also faced some challenges and criticisms from various stakeholders. Some of the issues include:
- The environmental impact of clearing land and building infrastructure in Kalimantan, which could threaten the habitats of endangered species, such as orangutans, rhinos, elephants, and hornbills. It could also increase deforestation, forest fires, land conflicts, and human-wildlife interactions.
- The social and economic impact of moving millions of people from Jakarta to Kalimantan, which could disrupt their livelihoods, cultures, and identities. It could also create inequalities and tensions between the newcomers and the locals, especially the indigenous groups that have customary rights over their lands.
- The political and legal implications of changing the status of Jakarta as the capital city, which could affect its governance, budget allocation, and representation in the national parliament. It could also require amendments to the constitution and other laws that refer to Jakarta as the capital.
The government has stated that it will address these issues by conducting comprehensive studies, consultations, and evaluations before proceeding with the relocation plan. It has also pledged to involve all relevant stakeholders in the planning and implementation process, and to ensure transparency and accountability throughout.
The relocation of Indonesia's capital is a historic and ambitious endeavor that will have significant impacts on the country's future development. It is also an opportunity to create a new model of urban living that is more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. Kalimantan is where the future Indonesia capital will be - but it is also where many challenges and opportunities lie ahead.
