Malaysian Observer Says IKN Can Develop Indonesia's Potential In ASEAN

Observer from Malaysia said the potential of IKN for Indonesia (DOC. ANTARA)

KUALA LUMPUR Moving the capital city of Indonesia from Jakarta to the capital city of the archipelago (IKN) in Kalimantan received the spotlight from an international political observer from Malaysia, Dr. Marwan bin Ismail. He considered the policy a brilliant decision that had a positive impact on Indonesia as a great strength in ASEAN.

"The transfer of the capital city is a strategic step that will strengthen Indonesia both politically and economically in ASEAN," said Dr. Marwan in a written statement, Sunday, September 15.

Dr. Marwan, who is also a senior lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), likened the transfer of IKN to Malaysia's experience when Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad moved the administrative capital to Putrajaya. He said, although he was criticized, the move had helped strengthen the Malaysian economy.

Putrajaya used to be nicknamed a ghost city, but is now the center of government that has contributed greatly to Malaysia's economic progress. Mahathir initially received a lot of criticism, but this policy proved successful, "explained Dr. Marwan.

Dr. Marwan highlighted that the transfer of IKN also has the potential to bring benefits to Malaysia, especially for the Sabah and Sarawak regions. According to him, infrastructure growth in Kalimantan will open up opportunities for closer economic cooperation between the two countries.

Sarawak, which is growing rapidly in the electric energy sector, can become an important partner in supporting the development of the capital Nusantara. This collaboration will also strengthen relations between Kalimantan and Malaysia," he added.

He predicts, through the development of extensive infrastructure in Kalimantan, Indonesia will become one of the main powers in ASEAN and even in Asia.

Furthermore, Dr. Marwan gave his views on Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, who according to him is fully committed to continuing the agenda of moving the capital after being elected president. Prabowo's support for the vision of IKN development is considered to show a great deal of life and a strong commitment to continuing the agenda that has been launched by President Jokowi.

Prabowo shows a leadership attitude that should be imitated. His full support for the relocation of the capital city shows the importance of continuity of leadership in continuing Indonesia's development," said Dr. Marwan.

He also highlighted Prabowo's military background as an important factor in maintaining the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia. According to him, leaders with military experience are needed to maintain stability in a country as big as Indonesia, which consists of thousands of islands.

Prabowo's military experience will be very useful in maintaining Indonesian unity. The history of the New Order under Suharto proves how leaders with military backgrounds can maintain the integrity of the country," he stressed.

Dr. Marwan is optimistic, with Prabowo Subianto's strong commitment, Indonesia will become the most developed country in Southeast Asia in decades to come.