President Joko Widodo of Indonesia has begun working from the presidential palace in the new administrative capital, Nusantara, located in East Kalimantan province on Borneo. The ambitious project to move the capital from Jakarta to Nusantara has faced delays, with the $33bn project behind schedule.
President Widodo, known as Jokowi, spent his first night in the palace and reported that everything was progressing well with the construction. However, most buildings in Nusantara remain unfinished, leading to questions about the relocation plan. The city is set to officially become the capital on August 17th, but slow progress has forced the resignations of key officials involved in the project.
Despite the delays, President Widodo’s administration has focused on attracting private investment for the city’s development, with the state covering only 20% of the costs. Infrastructure improvements, including a new solar power plant and drinking water reservoir, are in progress to support the new capital.
There are still uncertainties around when the official relocation will happen, as President Widodo has not issued the necessary decree. The delay may impact the inauguration of President-elect Prabowo Subianto, who has promised to continue major projects initiated by Widodo, including the Nusantara capital.
Sulfikar Amir, an expert, has raised concerns about the rushed implementation of the project and the lack of infrastructure in the new capital. The project’s financing and planning have been affected by the speedy development. As Indonesia waits for the completion of Nusantara, questions remain about the future of the ambitious project.
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