"IKN will create new demand," Jokowi stated while reviewing a water pump for irrigation in Bantaeng, South Sulawesi, according to a video broadcast by his office on Friday.
He explained that the water pumping program aims to increase agricultural productivity, helping regions across Indonesia meet food needs.
Jokowi stated that surplus food production in regions can be distributed to other areas, including IKN in East Kalimantan.
"Excess rice or vegetable production here can be delivered to IKN. Shallots here were priced well at Rp30,000 (around US$1.84) per kg, and they can be sent to IKN," he remarked.
He expressed his belief that Nusantara Capital City would emerge as a new economic growth center that is transforming and applying the principles of a green economy.
Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman, who accompanied Jokowi during the visit, earlier stated that 5,230 irrigation water pumps have been operating in the province since the program was implemented in 2019.
The program aims to distribute water from rivers through pumps and pipes for rice field irrigation, offering a quick solution to increase the planting index and rice production amid the threat of El Nino.
According to Sulaiman, large-scale pump installation is necessary to anticipate the long drought that could hit Indonesia and most parts of the world.
The government will distribute 25,000 pumps this year, with a total target of 75,000 pumps.
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Translator: Yashinta P, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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