Nusantara, July 11, 2024, The Europe Today: The Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) has confirmed that the State Palace in Nusantara Capital City (IKN), currently under development, is set to be operational by the end of July. This announcement comes as preparations intensify for the upcoming national ceremony marking Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day on August 17.
Imam Santoso Ernawi, head of the PUPR ministry’s task force for Nusantara infrastructure development planning, disclosed that significant progress has been achieved. Most of the rooms, including the main suites, within the State Palace are nearing completion and will soon be ready for use.
In an online press conference held in Jakarta on Thursday, Ernawi highlighted the completion of the ceremonial ground, designated to host the Independence Day anniversary celebrations. “The ceremonial ground and its podium are now 100 percent ready to accommodate up to 8,000 attendees for the national ceremony,” he affirmed.
The overall construction progress of the State Palace and ceremonial ground has surpassed 83 percent, with the Presidential Office nearing 88 percent completion. Ernawi outlined plans for rigorous testing and commissioning throughout July to ensure readiness by August.
“July marks the month of testing and commissioning. Our goal is to ensure that all facilities, including the State Palace, Presidential Office, and ceremonial ground, are fully operational by the commemoration date,” Ernawi assured.
The government’s concerted efforts to prepare critical infrastructure and facilities in Nusantara Capital City ahead of the national ceremony, to be presided over by President Joko Widodo, have been extensive. PUPR Minister Basuki Hadimuljono recently affirmed that essential services such as internet connectivity, water supply, and electricity will be fully functional by August 17.
Moreover, preparations are underway to make Nusantara Airport operational, including its 2,200-meter-long runway, in time for the Independence Day commemoration. Hadimuljono emphasized ongoing efforts to ensure that ministerial coordination buildings and a 190-room hotel are ready to accommodate dignitaries and guests attending the event.
As the deadline approaches, anticipation mounts for the completion of this ambitious project, aimed at establishing Nusantara Capital City as a new administrative hub and symbol of Indonesia’s future aspirations.
