Minister Of Communication And Information Affirms IKN Development Takes Equal Access Approach

JAKARA – The government uses three approaches so that development in the National Capital City (IKN) of the Archipelago can create equal access for all people. This was confirmed by the Minister of Communication and Information (Menkominfo) Johnny G. Plate.

“That is development as Forest City, Sponge City and Smart City. For Smart City, IKN Nusantara will maximize regional digital opportunities and carry out various smart initiatives in various fields. Such as in the areas of access and mobility, the environment, security and safety, the public sector and government, urban systems, as well as livability and dynamics," said Johnny as quoted from his written statement, Saturday, April 23.

Johnny assessed that in the future IKN Nusantara will not only become a symbol of national identity or a symbol of the state which is realized through the construction of physical spaces but can also show Indonesia's vision of supporting sustainable development and in line with digital transformation.

IKN Nusantara is promised to be a breath of fresh air for the community and a concrete example of development in both Western Indonesia and Eastern Indonesia to be equal.

“The Capital of the Archipelago also represents the idea of inclusive progress, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika with a vision of developing as a new smart metropolis or smart city that integrates aspects of information and communication technology. To become an innovation center that consolidates growth and brings Indonesia forward," he said.

The presence of IKN Nusantara is also expected to be a solution to the challenges that are being faced by Indonesia, including the challenge of economic equity.

Johnny revealed that Government data related to the spatial structure of Indonesia's economy is dominated by the western part of Indonesia, especially on the island of Java, which contributes to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of 57.8 percent, followed by Sumatra Island with 21.7 percent.

Meanwhile, for the Eastern region, namely Maluku and Papua, it was recorded that they only contributed 2.49 percent.

"This shows the still large dominance of the island of Java in the portion of the Indonesian economy. Another urgency of the importance of moving the nation's capital is because until now Indonesia is still facing the challenge of economic inequality between regions," said Johnny.

He also realized that the government's efforts to reduce the issue of economic inequality became a big homework for Indonesia.

Therefore, the development of IKN is a major breakthrough and a concrete realization of the Central Government's decision in realizing more equitable development and national growth.