Indonesian President Stays at New Capital Palace

NUSANTARA, Indonesia — President Joko Widodo, affectionately known as Jokowi, has officially spent his first night in the newly constructed Garuda Palace, the centerpiece of Indonesia's proposed new capital, Nusantara. This visit comes as the president prepares for official meetings and aims to address concerns surrounding the ambitious infrastructure project, which has faced significant delays and challenges. Jokowi emphasized the long-term nature of the project, stating, “This is a big job. It can take 10, 15, 20 years,” highlighting the complexities involved in relocating the capital from Jakarta. Despite the palace's striking design, featuring 4,650 blades symbolizing an eagle's wings, Jokowi admitted to a restless first night, although essential services like water, electricity, and internet connectivity have now been established. As he gears up for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations in Nusantara on August 17, the president has adopted a more pragmatic tone regarding the project’s timeline and progress, asserting that the work is proceeding according to established procedures. In a recent public appearance, Jokowi showcased the new toll road in Nusantara, riding a motorcycle alongside government officials and social media influencers. While he has initiated construction on schools and office complexes, the project has yet to secure any foreign investment, raising concerns about its viability. The situation was further complicated last month when two key officials overseeing the project resigned unexpectedly, deepening skepticism about the future of Nusantara.