Jakarta (BERITAPOLITIK.ONLINE) — Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the presidential and vice-presidential hopefuls, have pledged to continue the advancement of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) project, which was initiated during Joko Widodo’s presidency, should they emerge victorious in the 2024 Presidential Election.
Prabowo-Gibran are dedicated to pushing forward with this initiative as a pivotal component of their national agenda. Based on quick counts conducted by various survey agencies and the official tally by the General Election Commission (KPU), Prabowo-Gibran are currently leading as the preferred choice among voters.
The duo also stands a strong chance of securing an outright victory in the 2024 Presidential Election, according to projections derived from these counts.
Regarding the IKN endeavor, its development serves as one of Jokowi’s strategies to foster balanced national growth, aiming to address historical imbalances that have predominantly favored Java Island.
The objective of IKN is to establish a fresh economic nucleus beyond Java, expediting national economic transformation and promoting more equitable growth.
Gibran has reiterated the duo’s commitment to advancing the development of IKN as part of their vision to create more evenly distributed economic opportunities.
Aligned with the vision of Prabowo-Gibran, the progress of IKN is expected to stimulate economic growth, create employment prospects, and invigorate various sectors including housing, infrastructure, energy, and transportation.
Financing for IKN entails a combination of state budget allocations (APBN) and private sector participation.
Feasibility of IKN?
B.J. Pasaribu from the Strategic and Data Analytics Research Institute (SADARI) underscored the substantial budgetary implications associated with IKN.
Speaking to the media on Thursday (March 7, 2024), B.J. Pasaribu highlighted that while the IKN project could move forward under a Prabowo presidency, significant risks remain, particularly concerning investor engagement.
He expressed concerns that Prabowo’s perceived apprehension towards foreign investment might discourage international interest in IKN.
“If this pattern continues, the progress of IKN might significantly rely on local investors and state-owned enterprises (BUMN). Such dependence poses significant risks, as BUMNs often rely on substantial state funding for government projects,” he cautioned.
Additionally, Pasaribu pointed out potential budgetary strains arising from Prabowo-Gibran’s campaign promise of providing free meals for 82.9 million people, which could further strain the state budget alongside funding for IKN.
Without adequate investor interest, IKN runs the risk of becoming a dormant city outside of working hours, potentially derailing its development.
“Pasaribu stressed that if Prabowo assumes the presidency, he must demonstrate a commitment to investors by ensuring significant infrastructure development and successful relocation of people to the Nusantara Capital City. Infrastructure development serves as the cornerstone, alongside crucial efforts for resident relocation, especially civil servants,” Pasaribu concluded.
He emphasized that Prabowo’s dedication to IKN closely aligns with Jokowi’s vision for balanced national development.
