Indonesia has recently promulgated a significant change in its administrative geography. The country’s president has publicized plans to shift the capital from the current bustling city of Jakarta to East Kalimantan province, located on the less populous Borneo island. Jakarta, with an impressive population of 10 million residents, is situated on the northwest coast of Java, the world’s most populous island. This strategic move is not devoid of valid reasons which encompass both natural and man-made factors.
Why The Relocation?
Jakarta’s geographical location has majorly contributed to this decision. Originally built on a marshland, the city is already positioned a few meters below sea level, making it susceptible to submersion. Climate change impacts have further amplified this vulnerability. The ever-rising water levels in the Java Sea and increasing extremity of weather events pose an intimidating threat to the city’s sustenance. Disturbingly, Jakarta holds the infamous ranking of being among the world’s fastest sinking cities.
Additionally, Jakarta serves as the thriving hub for the administrative, governance, finance, and trade activities of the country. This has stimulated an ever-increasing pace of construction in the city. However, this relentless development has resulted in impeding natural water permeation into the ground in many areas. The resultant increased run-off is exacerbating the city’s water management problems.
The New Capital: East Kalimantan
The proposed new capital, East Kalimantan, is located over 1,400 km away from Jakarta, on the expansive Borneo island. In stark contrast to Jakarta, East Kalimantan boasts of a mineral-rich environment and was once almost completely enveloped by rainforests. The relocation is expected to bring about a new era of balanced development in this region.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current Capital of Indonesia | Jakarta |
| Population of Jakarta | 10 Million |
| Proposed New Capital | East Kalimantan, Borneo Island |
| Distance between Jakarta and East Kalimantan | Over 1,400 km |
| Characteristics of East Kalimantan | Mineral-rich region, previously almost completely covered by rainforests |
Significance of the Move
The capital shift is aimed to mitigate the myriad issues plaguing Jakarta while also fostering growth and development in East Kalimantan. It is a strategic move that reflects proactive planning and strong commitment towards sustainable development. In addition to reducing the burden on Jakarta, this transition promises to bring about equitable distribution of resources and opportunities across Indonesia.
