The fate” and “the future” indeed carry distinct connotations. Readers are encouraged to understand the reasoning behind choosing the term “fate” in this context.
Thus is the current state of the prospective new capital of the Republic of Indonesia, designed and designated in Paser Penajam, East Kalimantan, named Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN)
Read The Future of IKN and the Threat of Accelerated Deforestation on the Island of Borneo
National political dynamics have pervasive effects on various aspects of community life. One example is in the context of discussions about the IKN.
Although already enshrined in law, the implementation of IKN policies depends on the political courage of the post-Jokowi government to execute them.
The success of IKN implementation can reflect several factors, including political stability, social and environmental impacts, as well as changes in local economic dynamics.
First and foremost, political stability is key. Controversial political decisions or changes in development policies can create investment uncertainty, influencing economic growth and community well-being.
Next, social and environmental impacts need serious attention.
Large-scale development projects like IKN can substantially alter spatial arrangements. Increased mobility, lifestyle changes, and impacts on the local ecosystem must be managed wisely.
Read The Dayak People and the Green Regions of Borneo that Form Their Life
In this context, changes in the local economic structure can also occur.
IKN development can create new growth centers, but it must ensure that the benefits are distributed evenly. It should not focus solely on one region but also consider development in other areas to prevent development inequalities.
Infrastructure is a key element. The government needs to anticipate increased mobility and ensure that the infrastructure can respond to emerging needs.
Without proper planning, congestion and pressure on transportation infrastructure can occur.
The relocation of the government center can also affect labor dynamics. The government needs to carefully plan workforce relocation and provide training to adapt to these changes.
We do not want the upheaval of the 2024 elections to impact various sectors, including the potential abandonment of the IKN megaproject. Why? Because if not continued, this will be the biggest stalled project in Indonesian history.
Read Who is Destroying the Forests in Borneo?
Administrative challenges can also arise, especially for local governments. Strengthening governance and public administration capacity is essential to manage the impacts of IKN development.
The Dayaks are not considered and not involved. Community participation in decision-making is a crucial element. By involving the local community, the government can build support and reduce the potential for social tension.
In reality, the local community feels excluded. Various protests, from civilized approaches such as dialogue and discussion to demonstrations and more extreme actions, reflect their dissatisfaction with the lack of involvement.
The non-participation of the local community in decision-making regarding development projects such as the Archipelago’s Capital (IKN) is a serious concern. Involving the community is not only a symbolic element but also a strategy to build strong support and avoid potential social conflict.
In fact, many local residents feel inadequately involved. Varied protests, ranging from civilized approaches like dialogue and discussion to demonstrations and more extreme actions, reflect their dissatisfaction with the lack of participation.
The concerns of the community are not only focused on the direct impact of the project on their physical environment but also on its social and cultural impacts. Relocation, changes in economic structures, and lifestyle changes are aspects that need to be considered.
The sole Dayak representative among the IKN leadership as an expert staff is not enough to reflect the diversity and interests of the local community. Concrete steps are needed to ensure better representation and recognition of the Dayak community’s participation rights.
Read The Dayak People and the Green Regions of Borneo that Form Their Life
The importance of listening to the aspirations of the local community is not only symbolic but also a fundamental principle of sustainable development.
The government needs to open more effective communication channels, conduct open dialogues, and organize participatory forums to listen to various perspectives and concerns of the community. Only in this way can large-scale development projects like IKN be accepted and implemented with strong support from the local community.
Additionally, the country’s image can be influenced by this policy. It is important to consider its impact on diplomacy and international relations.
Taking these factors into account, the implementation of IKN must consider the balance between economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.
This harmony can create sustainable development and provide long-term benefits for the entire society.
The biggest stalled project in Indonesian history? The 2024 elections can have serious implications for the continuation of infrastructure projects and the strategic plans of the Archipelago’s Capital (IKN) in East Kalimantan.
Political upheaval and changes in government often lead to policy uncertainties, which can affect development priorities.
Large projects like IKN are vulnerable to shifts in priorities and feasibility reviews by the new government.
Economic uncertainties that may arise due to political instability can also threaten the availability of funds for infrastructure projects.
Furthermore, opposition from the opposition to ongoing projects can lead to delays or even the complete cessation of projects.
The new government is likely to reassess the feasibility of projects, including their economic, environmental, and social impacts.
To avoid the risk of projects being stalled, efforts must be made to maintain political stability and design strategies that minimize uncertainty in the implementation of infrastructure projects.
Effective dialogue among stakeholders can be key to ensuring project continuity and minimizing the negative impacts of political changes.
caption: President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, when inaugurating IKN. Participating in the Dayak tradition: where the land is treaded upon, there the sky is revered. Documented by Helena/Bibliopedia
