Netherlands Sets Sights on IKN: Major Investments in Clean Water and Agriculture on the Horizon

Take a Look at the Presidential Office in IKN Nusantara, Grand and Luxurious!
Take a Look at the Presidential Office in IKN Nusantara.
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The Netherlands is set to enhance its investment in the development of Indonesia’s new capital city, IKN Nusantara. Dutch Ambassador to Indonesia, Lambert Grijns, has underscored the importance of Dutch contributions across various sectors in this ambitious project.

A key area of collaboration between the two nations lies in the development of sustainable water management systems. “The Netherlands is providing financial assistance through the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support water management, particularly focusing on nature-based solutions and sustainable water systems,” Grijns stated, as reported by Antara on Friday, July 19, 2024.

The collaboration of the Netherlands in IKN extends beyond water management. Several Dutch universities have signed memorandums of understanding with the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN), focusing on research and education, particularly in sustainable development and ecological management.

The agricultural sector in Nusantara also presents significant investment opportunities for Dutch investors. Grijns emphasized the importance of this sector, noting that it is crucial to ensure that the residents of IKN can enjoy fresh, locally-produced food.

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Building a new city is a common strategy employed by governments worldwide to address population density issues, and Indonesia is no exception. Grijns acknowledged this effort as part of the Indonesian government’s strategy to ensure balanced development by shifting the economic growth center to the country’s central region.

The Dutch Ambassador expressed personal interest in the IKN project and is eager to visit the site to observe the ongoing development. However, he cautioned that developing a new city is a long-term endeavor that extends beyond the construction of infrastructure and public facilities. It requires consistent and prolonged effort to ensure the city becomes livable and stable for its residents.

“IKN needs time to grow into a self-sustaining and stable city, and in my opinion, the most crucial element that IKN needs is more development time,” Grijns stated.

IKN development progress regarding the Netherlands’ news

Meanwhile, President Joko Widodo has provided updates on the progress of Nusantara’s development. By August 17, 2024, the overall progress is expected to reach only 15 percent. The President urged everyone not to expect the capital to be fully completed by that date, when the independence day ceremony is planned to be held at the new State Palace.

“So don’t imagine that on August 17 we will have everything completed. It won’t be like that. According to my assessment, by August 17, the overall progress will be about 15 percent,” Jokowi said before departing for Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, East Jakarta, on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.

Jokowi emphasized that a project as significant as IKN cannot be completed in just 2-3 years. It is a long-term project spanning 15-20 years and still requires substantial investment. He noted that the State Budget (APBN) is only being used for the construction of the core government area.