Indonesia is embarking on a monumental shift in its national infrastructure by relocating its capital from Jakarta to a newly constructed city called Nusantara, situated on the eastern coast of Borneo, approximately 870 miles north of the current capital. This ambitious project, set to be completed by 2045, is estimated to cost around $35 billion. It aims to address several pressing issues facing Jakarta, including its status as the world’s fastest-sinking megacity.
Jakarta, home to over 10 million people and nearly 30 million in the greater metropolitan area is grappling with severe subsidence, with about 40% of the city now below sea level. The relocation to Nusantara is part of a broader effort to mitigate environmental risks, such as rising sea levels and excessive groundwater extraction, which have exacerbated the city’s sinking. This crisis has also prompted the Indonesian government to invest billions in anti-flooding measures to protect Jakarta.
The choice of Nusantara reflects President Joko Widodo’s vision to create a ‘green, walkable’ metropolis entirely powered by renewable energy by 2045. The new capital will feature sustainable innovations like a 50-megawatt solar plant and the exclusive use of electric vehicles by the decade’s end. Approximately 6,000 government workers are expected to relocate there by October to coincide with the next presidential inauguration.
To generate public interest and garner support, the Indonesian government has enlisted influencers and made green pledges part of its promotional strategy. These efforts include tours of the new capital site, led by Widodo himself, to address deforestation and environmental impact concerns. Influencer engagement has proven effective, with significant social media coverage boosting visibility for Nusantara, touted by one TikTok star as “the smartest and most eco-friendly city in the world.”
This strategic move is not unprecedented globally, with historical parallels in Brazil’s and Nigeria’s capital relocations, driven by various administrative and geopolitical motives. However, Indonesia’s initiative is uniquely compelled by environmental challenges, making it a pioneering example of adaptive urban planning in response to the climate crisis.
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