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As Nusantara gears up to assume the role of Indonesia's new capital, the future of Jakarta hangs in uncertainty

Nusantara is poised to become Indonesia's fresh capital, leaving Jakarta's fate uncertain. The Lower House swiftly approved the draft law on relocating the national capital, solidifying the nation's new central city after the concept was initially broached three years ago.

In a record-breaking 42 days, the bill sailed through parliamentary debates earlier this month, driven by the coalition parties supporting President Joko Widodo's administration, with minimal opposition.

The urgency stems from Jakarta's vulnerability to routine flooding, severe pollution, earthquakes, and rapid sinking. The proposed solution is Nusantara, located in East Kalimantan on Borneo island, with a scheduled relocation from the first quarter of 2024 until 2027.

Despite concerns over the rushed project and its hefty budget of $46 billion, the government maintains that a new capital is essential for Indonesia's future. Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan reassures that the megacity, home to over 31 million people, will persist as a vital urban hub.

Muhamad Eka Yudhistira, a Jakarta native, hopes that the burden on Jakarta will alleviate post-relocation. He envisions improved traffic and reduced pollution, though he emphasizes the need to consider the impact on indigenous people in Kalimantan.

While Jakarta grapples with sinking issues, Elisa Sutanudjaja from the Rujak Centre for Urban Studies remains optimistic. She believes the move might relieve Jakarta from exploitative development, allowing the city to regulate its spatial planning more freely.

As the capital shift looms, questions arise about the fate of Jakarta's government-owned buildings. The Ministry of Finance plans to lease state assets in Jakarta to finance Nusantara's construction, aiming to prevent empty or abandoned structures in the capital.

However, not everyone is thrilled with the plan. Local residents near Nusantara express concerns about insufficient consultation and potential environmental damage. Activists like Pradarma Rumpang fear the development's impact on fragile ecosystems, local livelihoods, and access to clean water.

The future of Jakarta, whether sinking or thriving, hinges on the leadership's vision and decisions regarding spatial planning. As the nation prepares for this monumental shift, uncertainties and challenges underscore the unique journey toward establishing Nusantara as Indonesia's new heart.