When people ask, what is the capital of Indonesia? the answer has always been clear—Jakarta.
This vibrant city is the heart of Indonesia, the largest city in the country, and the center of politics, culture, and economy.
But as the country grows and faces new challenges, Indonesia has made a bold decision to relocate its capital to Nusantara, a newly planned city in East Kalimantan.
What is the Capital of Indonesia
Jakarta: The Current Capital of Indonesia
Jakarta isn’t just the capital; it’s the driving force of Indonesia. With over 10 million residents, the city pulses with energy—skyscrapers, markets, busy streets, and endless traffic.
It’s a major economic hub, home to multinational companies and the core of Indonesia’s government.
For years, Jakarta has been the answer to what is the capital of Indonesia? But the reality is that this bustling city has outgrown its infrastructure and capacity.
The challenges Jakarta faces are no secret. It is overcrowded, with traffic that seems never-ending and pollution that’s become a daily concern.
The city is sinking due to excessive groundwater extraction, and it faces regular flooding. Jakarta’s location on the northwest coast of Java Island also makes it vulnerable to rising sea levels.
These issues have raised the question: How long can Jakarta continue to serve as the capital of Indonesia?
Why Move the Capital?
The decision to relocate the capital wasn’t made lightly. The Indonesian government has decided that moving to Nusantara will address several key issues:
- Overcrowding and Congestion: Jakarta simply can’t handle its massive population any longer. Traffic and pollution have become overwhelming, making daily life a struggle for many residents.
- Environmental Concerns: Jakarta’s environmental challenges are severe, with the city sinking at an alarming rate.
Moving the capital is seen as a way to protect the nation’s future from the impact of rising sea levels and frequent flooding. - Encouraging Regional Growth: Jakarta has long dominated Indonesia’s economy and politics.
By moving the capital to East Kalimantan, the government hopes to promote more balanced development across the country, reducing the concentration of resources in Java. - Political and Administrative Practicality: Jakarta’s location on the island of Java makes it far from many regions of the archipelago. A more central location will help streamline governance and improve access to all areas of Indonesia.
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Nusantara: The Future Capital
So, what will Nusantara, Indonesia’s new capital, look like? Located in East Kalimantan, Borneo, Nusantara offers several advantages:
- Central Location: Positioned in the heart of Indonesia, Nusantara will be closer to more regions, making it more accessible for citizens across the archipelago.
- Low Population Density: East Kalimantan is sparsely populated, giving the city room to grow without the overcrowding issues Jakarta faces.
- Eco-Friendly Focus: Nusantara will be built with sustainability at its core. The city will feature renewable energy, green spaces, and smart infrastructure to minimize its environmental footprint.
The Future of the Capital
Nusantara will be more than just a government center. The city is designed to be a modern, eco-friendly metropolis with cutting-edge infrastructure and an emphasis on sustainability.
It will house government offices, the presidential palace, and other key institutions, while also serving as a hub for business and investment.
The relocation of the capital is a long-term project. Construction will begin in 2024, with full relocation expected by 2045, marking Indonesia’s centennial of independence.
This ambitious plan faces numerous challenges, from funding to environmental concerns, but the government is committed to making it a success.
Conclusion
As the question what is the capital of Indonesia? is asked, the answer will soon shift from Jakarta to Nusantara.
While Jakarta will always hold a special place in Indonesia’s heart, the move to a new capital is necessary for the country’s long-term sustainability.
Nusantara promises to be a modern, eco-friendly city that will help Indonesia move forward, promoting balanced growth and a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Here are five recent statistics about Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia:
- Population Growth: Jakarta’s population is expected to reach 13.6 million by 2035. This marks an ongoing increase in the city’s population, which already makes up about 11% of Indonesia’s total population.
- Economic Contribution: Jakarta accounts for nearly 18% of Indonesia’s GDP, serving as the country’s main economic hub. The city is home to major industries, businesses, and financial institutions.
- Sinking City: Jakarta is the fastest-sinking major city in the world, with the city sinking by up to 10 inches annually. Experts predict that by 2050, 95% of North Jakarta could be submerged due to rising sea levels.
- Poverty Rate: In 2020, Jakarta’s poverty rate was recorded at 3.42%, reflecting significant improvements, though North Jakarta remains the area most impacted by poverty and flooding.
- Diversity: Jakarta is a melting pot of ethnicities, with the largest groups being Javanese (36%) and Betawi (28%), among others. The city is home to a diverse array of cultures, languages, and religions, making it a vibrant and dynamic metropolis.
These statistics provide a snapshot of Jakarta’s current state, highlighting both the challenges it faces, such as sinking and rising sea levels, as well as its economic significance and population trends.
Here are five key statistics related to the new capital city of Indonesia, Nusantara:
- Project Completion: As of mid-2024, the development of Nusantara is about 80% complete, with significant progress in key infrastructures like the presidential palace and government facilitiesMarket Entry Indonesia.
- Size of the City: Nusantara will be approximately twice the size of New York City, covering around 2
Here are five key statistics about Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara:
- Project Completion: As of mid-2024, Nusantara’s development is 80% complete, with major structures like the presidential palace nearing completion.
- Size: Nusantara will be roughly twice the size of New York City, covering an area of about 2,500 square kilometers.
- Investment in Infrastructure: By 2023, local and foreign investors had committed over IDR 96 trillion ($6.2 billion) for the construction of residential buildings, government offices, and key facilities.
- Sustainability: The city is designed to be a “green city,” focusing on renewable energy, smart waste management, and incorporating large areas of forest and parks.
- Transportation: The new capital will feature a modern public transportation network, with emphasis on electric vehicles and sustainable urban mobility.
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