Nusantara Takes Center Stage: Indonesia's Independence Day Celebrations

Nusantara Celebrates Independence Day

Nusantara is making headlines as Indonesia observes its Independence Day in a groundbreaking manner. For the first time, the main celebrations are taking place in the new capital on the island of Borneo, a city designed to be a futuristic smart city. President Jokowi previously hosted his cabinet meeting in Nusantara, asserting that this city represents a visionary canvas that will shape Indonesia's future.

Vision for a Green City

The president elaborated his vision for Nusantara as more than just a concrete jungle; it is to be developed as a 'forest city' filled with greenery. This intelligent city is expected to incorporate advanced technologies, including aerial taxis. Currently, the environment is characterized by construction cranes and unfinished buildings, with only a portion of the essential infrastructure nearing completion. The entire project is anticipated to take until 2045 to complete.

Previously, Jokowi announced that the move of the capital was necessary due to Jakarta's gradual sinking, which puts much of the city below sea level. The challenges of traffic congestion and pollution in the metropolis, which houses eleven million people, further necessitate this shift. Nusantara is located a two-hour flight northeast of Jakarta in Kalimantan, Indonesia’s portion of Borneo.

President Jokowi's successor, Prabowo Subianto, also attended the Independence Day celebrations, stating that Nusantara is a magnificent capital. The new palace, shaped like a giant eagle - the Garuda Palace - is highlighted as impressive and beautiful. However, there are concerns regarding the forced relocations that have occurred during this transition, with critics stating that compensation has been inadequate.