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| Dr. Saiman, M.Si., a lecturer of Political Science at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) (Photo: Special) |
The Capital City (IKN) will operate for the first time on August 17, 2024, coinciding with the celebration of the 79th Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia in Nusantara, East Kalimantan. Various polemics have arisen in society. Some see this as an opportunity, while others perceive it as a threat.
In response, Dr. Saiman, M.Si., a lecturer in Political Science at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), expressed that relocating the capital is indeed necessary due to Jakarta's increasing population density and infrastructural development. However, several aspects need to be considered, and the process should be gradual.
"In terms of governance, stability cannot be instant; it undoubtedly requires a gradual process over time. Building a capital city is not just about physical aspects; governance systems must also be considered. For example, the readiness of human resources, infrastructure, facilities, budget, and other supporting systems that can aid the IKN process as a governance entity," he added.
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Moreover, he explained that IKN actually has significant long-term positive impacts on the entire Indonesian society. One of these is the pride of having a new area as the center of government. It shapes future history because Indonesia dares to develop by relocating the capital.
"From the perspective of political science, IKN presents both opportunities and challenges for Indonesia to be recognized internationally. One of the aspirations of the new IKN is economic growth. IKN opens up opportunities for economic and tourism sectors. If utilized properly, it will help stimulate the economy in the surrounding areas," he added.
People can open various businesses, both services and goods, new housing, and even attractive tourist destinations for both local and international tourists. However, unfortunately, any development entails considerable costs, as the government currently focuses on the core infrastructure of the IKN center. Therefore, if someone wishes to start a business, they must be prepared financially.
"Considering the high costs of IKN development, the government needs to collaborate with investors to support the construction process. This can potentially pose a threat to Indonesia; whether it benefits the nation or the opposite," he said.
He also emphasized the importance of examining and clarifying the legal-political aspects. In this regard, the younger generation must contribute, be vigilant, and remain critical of the government's decisions for the future of IKN. The existence of IKN also undoubtedly impacts the environment. Many NGOs are against it because the forests in Kalimantan are one of the world's lungs.
There are also other threats from a topographical perspective, namely the landform of IKN, which is not too high, surrounded by swamps and rivers. Therefore, in the construction process, flood anticipation measures must be taken. "We don't want the main problem in Jakarta, which is floods, to persist in the new IKN," he said.
However, despite this, he sees positive aspects in the construction of IKN, such as adequate transportation infrastructure by sea, air, and land to IKN. This means there is less concern about transportation during the construction phase. He also urged Indonesian society to support the smooth development of IKN and its many benefits.
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"People should view the potential of IKN positively. We must not allow this mega project to stall midway through construction. If that happens, it's the people who lose out because the development funds ultimately come from public money," he concluded. (dit/wil/fajr)
