“I think the primary and foremost reason behind the decision made by President Jokowi on the relocation of the capital city is for more balanced development in Indonesia, partly due to the overgrowth and immense population in Jakarta,” Kim told Antara during an exclusive interview in the Antara newsroom here on Thursday.
“In Korea, we had a similar policy on how to ensure the development of the country takes place in a more balanced manner,” he added.
Kim noted that South Korea has relocated the country’s numerous ministries and agencies to Sejong, the administrative hub and the only special autonomous city, located between South Chungcheong and North Chungcheong provinces.
Furthermore, Kim said that South Korea has taken the initiative to move some of the state-owned enterprises and public facilities to small and medium-sized cities, which Koreans referred to as “innovation cities”, to narrow the development gap between different regions in the country.
Related news: Public Works Ministry ready to build capital city in East Kalimantan
Related news: Time to shift capital city to Kalimantan: Jokowi
Regarding the impact of the relocation of the capital city in Indonesia, Ambassador Kim said that it is still unclear, but the policy could be a “bonanza” for the people in Kalimantan.
"For the impact (in the region), we will have to see,” stated Kim, adding, “If the entire design is planned well, the new capital in Kalimantan could really be a nicer, smarter and greener city.”.
“Also, for us, if the capital is moved to Kalimantan, then the distance from Seoul to the new capital will be much closer,” Kim added.
0n August 26, 2019, the central government had declared that parts of the districts of North Penajam Paser and Kutai Kertanegara in East Kalimantan would be the location for the country’s new capital that is expected to be inaugurated in 2024.
The plan has triggered reactions from the public, in general, and environmental organizations, in particular, as Kalimantan is home to extensive forest areas.
Related news: Capital city concept to entail environmental restoration: minister
Related news: Greenpeace raises concerns over capital city relocation to Kalimantan
TEKO NANG JAWA TUR PROMOSI BUDAYA KORSEL
Reporter: Azizah Fitriyanti, Alyx Chang
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
