Indonesia builds new capital city in Borneo rainforest to replace sinking Jakarta

The short version

• Indonesia is constructing a planned capital, Nusantara, in the Borneo rainforest as Jakarta faces severe sinking and flood risks.[Scientific American]
• The 256,000-hectare project aims to accommodate 2.5 million residents by 2045, predominantly government employees.[Scientific American]
• Researchers are using acoustic monitoring to assess biodiversity impacts, while some Indigenous Balik residents face displacement.[Scientific American]
• Foreign investment momentum has slowed due to construction delays, political transition, and questions surrounding commercial viability.[Scientific American]

Key facts

• Jakarta is sinking rapidly, prompting plans to move the national capital to a site in Eastern Borneo.[Scientific American]
• The planned capital, Nusantara, spans 256,000 hectares and is targeted for completion by 2045.[Scientific American]
• The Indonesian government planned for 80 percent of Nusantara's budget to come from foreign investors.[Scientific American]
• Local Indigenous Balik residents have faced eviction and notifications of future relocation due to development.[Scientific American]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Indonesia is moving its capital. Will a forest pay the price?Scientific American metered