Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara (IKN), is set to become a model for clean air and sustainability, thanks to a bold plan that allows only electric vehicles to operate. President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) is confident that this policy will ensure IKN’s Air Quality Index (AQI) at level 0, marking a significant improvement over Jakarta’s current air quality.
During a groundbreaking ceremony for PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk.’s new project in IKN on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, Jokowi discussed air quality comparisons among major cities. He noted that Jakarta’s AQI stands at 176, while Singapore, Melbourne, and Paris have much lower AQIs of 44, 38, and 38, respectively.
“The standard for good air quality ranges from 0 to 50. Jakarta is far from meeting this standard. It’s not just Jakarta but the entire Greater Jakarta area,” Jokowi emphasized.
While the AQI for IKN has yet to be officially measured, Jokowi is optimistic that it will be around level 20. He believes the extensive use of green energy and the restriction of conventional vehicles will lead to even lower AQI levels.
“With only electric vehicles allowed, the AQI could drop to zero,” Jokowi asserted confidently.
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Jokowi praised BTN’s initiative to build its office in IKN, highlighting the significant demand for property financing in the new capital. He noted that BTN’s construction complements other state-owned banks that have already started projects in IKN.
“BTN’s move to construct its office here is commendable and aligns with the efforts of other state-owned banks that have already laid their foundation stones,” Jokowi remarked.
Regarding the development of IKN, Jokowi reported that the first phase is 80% complete. He expressed hope that the presidential office in IKN would be ready for use by July, with only the installation of water pumps remaining to channel water to buildings.
“The first phase is approximately 80% complete, with ongoing work on both interior and exterior aspects. God willing, it will be finished soon,” Jokowi said during his visit to IKN.
As for preparations for Indonesia’s Independence Day celebration on August 17, Jokowi assured that everything is nearly finalized. After inspecting the location and the planned sequence of events, he confirmed that there are no major issues.
“By mid-July, the construction will be ready, and we will begin preparations for the August 17 ceremony,” Jokowi concluded.
President Jokowi’s vision for the new capital includes ensuring IKN’s air quality of zero by exclusively using electric vehicles and green energy. This move aims to significantly improve air quality compared to Jakarta and set a new standard for sustainable urban living. As the development of IKN progresses, with 80% completion of the first phase, Jokowi remains optimistic about meeting future milestones.
The President’s proactive approach, coupled with substantial investments in green infrastructure, suggests that IKN could become a leading example of environmental sustainability and urban planning. Future efforts should continue to focus on integrating sustainable technologies and policies to maintain the momentum towards a greener Indonesia.
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