Comprehensive Study on Capital Relocation Needed Before Making Decision: President Jokowi

President Jokowi leads a Limited Meeting on the new capital relocation at the Presidential Office, Jakarta, Tuesday (6/8). (Photo by: Fitri/PR)

A comprehensive study regarding new capital relocation plan has not been completed, yet it is certain that the new capital will be located in the island of Kalimantan, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has said.

“The exact province that will host the new capital will be specified,” President Jokowi said in his introductory remarks at a limited meeting on new capital relocation at the Presidential Office, Jakarta, Tuesday (6/8).

According to the President, Ministry of National Development Planning/Head of the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) and Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) have studied alternative areas for the new capital in which the areas are located in Central Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, and South Kalimantan.

The President also said he would announce the location of the new capital once the study is completed.

President Jokowi went on to say that to reach a big decision on new capital relocation, details including studies on disaster threats, water resources, infrastructure, demographics, socio-political issues, as well as national security perimeter must be overviewed, adding that he will decide to move the national capital from Jakarta not in his capacity as head of government but as  head of state.

“We have to consider a big vision for the future of our nation and state,” he said.

For that reason, the President has ordered relevant ministers and heads of institutions to study from other countries’ experience in capital relocation. He also asked for the funding schemes, which may be sourced from the State Budget (APBN) and non-state budget, as well as a legal basis and regulation on the new capital relocation plan. (MAY/FID/ES)

Translated by: Syarifah Aisyah
Edited by: Rany Anjany/M. Ersan Pamungkas