And the article content. Indonesia’s Future Capital Nusantara Won’t Be a Ghost Town
- The Indonesian government maintains that construction of the new capital city, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan is proceeding as planned, despite recent reports characterizing it as a "ghost town."...
- Construction of Nusantara is ongoing, and the government disputes claims of stagnation.
- Nusantara,meaning "archipelago" in Indonesian and Sanskrit,is intended to replace Jakarta as Indonesia's capital city.
Indonesia’s Nusantara capital City Project: Addressing “ghost Town” Claims
Table of Contents
The Indonesian government maintains that construction of the new capital city, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan is proceeding as planned, despite recent reports characterizing it as a “ghost town.” As of january 30, 2026, the project continues to be developed, with phased relocation of civil servants underway.
Nusantara Development Status (as of January 30, 2026)
Construction of Nusantara is ongoing, and the government disputes claims of stagnation. Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Indonesia’s Vice President, stated in late January 2024 that progress is “quite good and on track” following a visit in december 2023. President Prabowo Subianto also visited Nusantara on January 12, 2024, shortly after taking office. While independent verification of the pace of construction remains challenging, official statements indicate continued investment and activity.
Background of the Nusantara Project
Nusantara,meaning “archipelago” in Indonesian and Sanskrit,is intended to replace Jakarta as Indonesia’s capital city. The plan was initially announced by President Joko Widodo in 2019, citing Jakarta’s numerous challenges as unsustainable for a national capital.
Reasons for Relocating the Capital
Several factors prompted the decision to move the capital. Jakarta faces critically important issues including:
* Traffic Congestion: Jakarta consistently ranks among the most congested cities globally, causing substantial economic losses and reduced quality of life.
* Flooding: The city is prone to regular and severe flooding, exacerbated by land subsidence and inadequate drainage.
* Pollution: Air and water pollution pose serious health risks to residents.
* Land Subsidence: Jakarta is sinking at an alarming rate, increasing the risk of inundation.
* Economic Imbalance: The relocation aims to redistribute economic development more evenly across the Indonesian archipelago, shifting focus away from the heavily populated Java island. This is intended to spur growth in eastern Indonesia.
Key Figures and Entities Involved
* Joko Widodo (Jokowi): Former President of Indonesia, initiated the Nusantara project.
* Prabowo Subianto: Current President of Indonesia, continuing the project as a key legacy initiative.
* Gibran Rakabuming Raka: Current Vice President of Indonesia, actively defending the project’s progress.
* East Kalimantan: The province where Nusantara is being constructed.
* Otorita Ibu Kota nusantara (IKN Authority): The governing body responsible for the planning, development, and construction of Nusantara. Official IKN Authority Website.
* ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR): Plays a crucial role in infrastructure development within Nusantara.Ministry of PUPR Website.
Note: Information regarding the project’s status beyond January 30, 2026, requires further investigation as this response is current as of that date. The project is long-term and ongoing, and developments are expected.