PART 2: Flooding Remains a Persistent Challenge
By Jamie McIntyre – Chief Editor, Australian National Review
Air quality is frequently under pressure.
Population density strains infrastructure and public services.
These are not signs of failure.
They are signs that Jakarta has succeeded beyond what it was ever originally designed to accommodate.
Indonesia’s decision to establish Nusantara as its future capital recognises precisely this challenge.
Rather than endlessly expanding Jakarta, Indonesia is beginning a new chapter.
That chapter should not end with just one new city.
Think Bigger
If Nusantara can eventually support around 1.9 million residents, why shouldn’t Indonesia ultimately develop five or six additional master-planned cities over the next 30 years?
Each could be designed from the ground up.
Wide roads.
Efficient public transport.
Reliable utilities.
World-class hospitals.
International universities.
Smart technology.
Green spaces.
Excellent waste management.
Clean rivers.
Renewable energy.
Affordable housing.
Cities that improve quality of life instead of merely accommodating population growth.
Where Could They Be?
This is not a government blueprint, but several regions stand out as worthy of long-term consideration.
1. The Malacca Gateway
Indonesia’s coastline along the Strait of Malacca represents one of the world’s greatest untapped strategic opportunities.
Few shipping lanes on Earth carry as much international trade.
A modern financial, logistics and technology city on Indonesia’s side of the Strait could become a major gateway for global commerce while complementing, rather than competing directly with,
neighbouring regional hubs.
2. North Sumatra Growth Corridor
A master-planned city in North Sumatra could strengthen manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, exports and tourism while creating a powerful economic engine outside Java.
3. Southern Lombok
Southern Lombok possesses exceptional tourism potential, beautiful coastlines and substantial room for carefully planned growth.
With world-class infrastructure and sustainable development, it could evolve into one of Asia’s premier tourism and lifestyle destinations while protecting its natural environment.
4. Eastern Indonesia Innovation Hub
Eastern Indonesia deserves greater investment.
A major city serving eastern provinces could encourage industry, education, healthcare and research while reducing regional inequality.
5. Kalimantan Expansion
Nusantara should not stand alone.
Supporting regional cities throughout Kalimantan could create a network of complementary urban centres that strengthen the island’s long-term economic future.
6. Sulawesi Economic Gateway
Sulawesi continues to grow rapidly through mining, agriculture, fisheries and manufacturing.
A new master-planned city could accelerate investment while providing a modern urban centre for millions of future residents.
Learning From Singapore
Few countries illustrate the power of strategic planning better than Singapore.
Within a generation, Singapore transformed itself from a developing economy into one of the world’s wealthiest nations through long-term planning, efficient government, excellent infrastructure and openness to international investment.
Indonesia begins with advantages Singapore never possessed.
A vast domestic market.
Original source: https://x.com/jamiemcintyre21/status/2073740399940907501
