TIMES HONGKONG, JAKARTA – Following the commemoration of Indonesia's Independence Day in the National Capital of Nusantara (IKN), East Kalimantan, this August, the government has announced plans to relocate Civil Servants (ASN) there.

Minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Basuki Hadimuljono explained that the celebration of the 79th anniversary of Indonesia's Independence Day will be held at IKN, and only after that will ASN be relocated there. This is because the residences and office buildings at IKN will be used first by the personnel who will conduct the ceremony.

The Task Force for the Implementation of the National Capital Infrastructure Development (IKN) under the Ministry of PUPR stated that several basic infrastructures, including the presidential office and four coordinating ministry buildings, will be utilized for the celebration of Indonesia's Independence Day at IKN Nusantara, East Kalimantan.

The commemoration of Indonesia's Independence Day on August 17, 2024, at IKN Nusantara, East Kalimantan, will mark the beginning of the relocation of the national capital from DKI Jakarta to Nusantara, in line with the vision of IKN as a smart forest city that prioritizes environmental aspects.

The relocation of ASN to IKN after the commemoration of Indonesia's Independence Day marks the first step in the process of relocating the national capital. This demonstrates the government's commitment to implementing the long-planned capital relocation plan.

In addition to preparing basic infrastructure, the government also continues to pay attention to environmental aspects in the development of IKN. As a smart forest city, IKN aims to be an example of sustainable and environmentally friendly development.

The relocation of the national capital is not just a physical relocation, but also a symbol of change and progress for Indonesia. By moving the capital city outside of Java, the government hopes to equalize development and strengthen interregional connectivity in Indonesia.

The relocation of ASN to IKN will also have positive impacts on East Kalimantan economically and socially. This can create new job opportunities, boost regional economic growth, and improve access to public services for the local community.

Thus, the commemoration of Indonesia's Independence Day at IKN, East Kalimantan, is not just a moment of celebration, but also an important first step in the journey towards relocating the national capital.