"It is East Kalimantan, but the specific location had yet to be named," Djalil remarked at the building of the Coordinating Ministry of Economic Affairs.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency (BPN) Sofyan Djalil stated here on Thursday that the national capital will be moved to Kalimantan.

"It is East Kalimantan, but the specific location had yet to be named," Djalil remarked at the building of the Coordinating Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Djalil explained that three thousand hectares of land will be required to build government offices under the first stage of development of the capital city.

"It can thereafter be expanded to 200-300 thousand hectares to build a city with beautiful city parks. The people can lead a healthy life and breathe in clean air. We are optimistic of it becoming an interesting city to live in," he explained.

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) had remarked earlier last week that Kalimantan Island will host Indonesia's new capital city.

Related news: Jokowi announces Kalimantan to host Indonesia's new capital city

“On the occasion of this historical moment, in the name of Allah Subhanahu Wa Taala, I will like to seek permission and support from the members of House of Representatives, respected members of the country, and the people in Indonesia to move the capital city to Kalimantan Island,” Jokowi noted during the state of the nation address.

However, the president chose to not divulge specific details on the province or city that will serve as the new capital city.

Jokowi explained that the capital city will not only be a symbol and identity of the country but it will also be emblematic of the nation’s advancement.

The president opined that relocating the capital city from Jakarta to Kalimantan Island will boost equity and equality of the country’s economic development.

"This move is for 'Indonesia Maju' (Onward Indonesia) Vision. Long live Indonesia," Jokowi affirmed.

Minister of National Development Planning/Head of the National Development Planning Board (Bappenas) Bambang Brodjonegoro stated that the new capital city must be located in the heart of Indonesia to signify justice and expedite development in the eastern part of Indonesia.

The minister noted that the new capital city should also have minimum risk of disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, flooding, landslides, and forest and land fires. Related news: Funding to relocate capital city sourced from privates, SOEs

Related news: Government should study implications of moving capital city: lawmaker

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Translator: Satyagraha, Sri Haryati
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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