That idea is becoming visible in Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN), where the first church is now almost complete. Construction has reached around 99 percent. The project is already in its final phase, with work focused on interiors, ornaments, façade, and landscaping. Once finished, the church is expected to begin operating in July.
A new capital is not only about government buildings and infrastructure. It is also about identity, community, and space for faith. The first church building is planned to be named the Basilica of Saint Francis Xavier Nusantara. Still, its official status as a basilica has not yet been confirmed.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs of Indonesia clarified that approval is still pending from the Holy See. This clarification was issued to address public assumptions about the church’s designation.
According to Salman Habeahan from the Directorate General of Catholic Community Guidance, the process follows the formal procedures of the Catholic Church. The Archbishop of Samarinda has submitted the request to the Holy See. Before that, the proposal went through detailed assessments covering historical, pastoral, liturgical, and spiritual aspects. It also received an official recommendation from the Indonesian Bishops Conference.
From a design perspective, the church is built to serve a large community. It can accommodate around 1,500 people indoors and another 1,000 in the outdoor area. The total construction budget stands at Rp704.9 billion.
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At the same time, development in Nusantara continues to expand beyond this project. The Nusantara Capital Authority is pushing forward with the construction of the legislative and judicial complexes. This effort follows direct instructions from Prabowo Subianto, with completion targeted between 2027 and 2028.
Basuki Hadimuljono, head of the IKN Authority, explained that the project includes the main buildings for state institutions along with supporting infrastructure and road access. These developments remain a priority, even as the government implements budget efficiency measures.
“The construction of the judicial and legislative complex is not included in the efficiency measures. Development will continue, so there is no need to worry,” he said in a statement quoted on Monday (13/4/2026).
Looking closer at the plan, the legislative complex will consist of several key buildings. These include the Plenary Building, the DPR Building, the DPD Building, and the MPR Building. To support connectivity, a 3.7 kilometer road network is also being prepared. The initial stage, including land clearing, has already been completed.
Step by step, Nusantara is taking shape. Not just as a seat of government, but as a place where institutions, infrastructure, and community life grow together.
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