Indonesia’s upcoming capital city, Nusantara, under the leadership of the Nusantara Capital City Authority (IKN), has recently broadcasted its ambitious vision for an innovative ecotourism project. The endeavor, centered around a sustainable urban forest concept, underlines the city’s commitment towards a greener future.
During a media briefing conducted by the Tourism and Creative Economy Ministry, IKN’s head, Bambang Susantono, shared details about the unique venture. According to him, the green spaces, which cover 65% of the capital area of 256,000 hectares, will not be compromised due to this project. Furthermore, Susantono emphasized that tourism will be designed in a way to avoid harm to the local ecosystem.
Taking a novel approach towards development, the authority plans to establish Nusantara as a unique tourist destination. Susantono suggested “Indonesia X” as the brand for the tourism program. The idea is to restore the green space for tourists to have an immersive experience, coexisting with nature.
The new initiatives will not be standalone. Susantano mentioned they will be intertwined with other tourist activities in East Kalimantan. It includes visits to the Dayak Penyah cultural village, attractions in Tenggarong, marine tourism on Derawan Island, and a journey to the nation’s capital via the newly constructed toll road to Samarinda.
On the same occasion, Nusantara’s undersecretary for social, cultural, and community empowerment, Alimuddin, added more perspective to the vision. He announced the plan to install 17 cabins to accommodate travelers. These cabins will provide an opportunity for visitors to explore the city’s lush forested areas. Alimuddin also highlighted the point zero, an area with deep historical significance, which is set to become an iconic symbol representing the archipelago.
Casting a gaze into the future, Alimuddin proposed that major hotel chains such as Marriott will likely invest in IKN, making it an attractive hub for tourists. The IKN Authority also revealed plans to commence the construction of a VVIP airport in the national capital by the end of August. This strategic move is expected to significantly improve access and connectivity for travelers due to its close proximity to the central core government area.
Indonesia’s Nusantara city thus promises to be a unique ecotourism destination in the heart of the East Kalimantan, innovating with a blend of sustainable urban forest concept and exciting travel experiences.
