“If the national program includes free nutritious meals, for IKN it is to introduce a biweekly tree planting program,” said Basuki Hadimuljono, head of the IKN Authority, during a visit to Sepaku, North Penajam Paser.
He said the new capital, designed as a modern and inclusive city, is also targeted to become a green, global innovation hub that benefits all Indonesians.
According to Basuki, the initiative is part of realizing the vision of the capital as a “Forest City,” where forests form the foundation of urban planning, balancing ecological preservation with modern development.
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The greening effort is carried out in partnership with the Association of Youth for Sustainability (AYS) Indonesia, a community focused on empowerment and innovation.
Basuki said AYS has pledged support for sustainable development in IKN, including promoting local products from East Kalimantan.
He stressed that the tree planting is not just symbolic but a concrete step to sustain ecosystems and support biodiversity in the capital area.
Together with AYS, the IKN Authority has so far planted at least 700 productive trees in the Sanggai watershed, specifically at the G03 IKN Retention Pond.
The plantings include durian, water apple and bay leaf trees, Basuki said.
“By gathering, we can breathe the fresh morning air and stay healthy together,” he added.
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Translator: Yoanita Hastryka Djohan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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