The Indonesian government’s commitment to developing Nusantara Capital City (IKN) doesn’t mean Jakarta will be left behind. In fact, a proposal is gaining traction that envisions Jakarta and IKN becoming twin cities, a strategy that reflects the crucial roles both cities will play in the nation’s future. By adopting this twin cities approach, Jakarta and IKN could share various administrative functions, especially during the transitional phase.
This idea was recently highlighted by Bambang Susantono, the Special Presidential Envoy for International Cooperation on the Development of IKN. However, the proposal itself originally came from the Indonesian Association of Planning Schools (ASPI), and it was passed on to Susantono by the former head of the IKN Authority.
“ASPI proposed the ‘Twin Cities’ concept for the future development of IKN and entrusted me to convey it to the government,” said Bambang, in a post shared on Instagram on Sunday, October 14, 2024.
According to Bambang, ASPI has conducted several studies involving its members, which culminated in the proposal of four scenarios for IKN’s development. Each scenario aims to ensure that the project remains aligned with its original vision and goals.
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The first scenario positions IKN as a city with a unique primary function, utilizing its potential as a living lab for urban development on its journey to becoming the nation’s capital by 2045.
The second scenario introduces the twin cities idea, where Jakarta and IKN would function as two major cities sharing governmental administrative duties for a set period, between 2025 and 2029.
The third scenario addresses the risk of delayed population growth at IKN, proposing measures to position the new capital as a livable and lovable city that attracts residents.
Finally, the fourth scenario suggests a reevaluation of key elements in IKN’s planning, such as infrastructure milestones, population targets, and costs.
“Based on the selected scenario, one city could serve as the de jure capital, while the other handles national government administration de facto. Each city would be designed with specific key functions,” Bambang explained.
ASPI hopes that by employing the twin cities concept, Jakarta and IKN can collaborate more effectively during this transition period. Bambang emphasized that this strategic approach could help streamline the shift of administrative functions while leveraging the strengths of both cities.