TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Tourism and Creative Economy Ministry aims on designing a tourism development program at the future new capital location after the New Capital Act (UU IKN) had just been ratified by President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo. This law brings the ambitious project closer to fruition which will see East Kalimantan’s North Penajem Paser replace Jakarta as Capital.

“There will be a design and budget scheme to prepare tourism potential at IKN based on ecotourism,” said Minister Sandiaga Uno in Monday’s weekly press briefing on February 21.

Sandiaga Uno believes East Kalimantan has its own cultural attraction, nature, and manmade-based nature tourism. This adds to the green capital concept that it will hone once the project is completed.

"I am certain technology will also play a very important role, this (development of creative tourism in IKN) is an opportunity for businesses, especially novice entrepreneurs to see the potentials that exist in IKN," said the Tourism Minister.

Over the next three months, Sandiaga aims to complete the blueprint for the development of the tourism sector and the creative economy in IKN which will be followed by a master plan.

The new capital of IKN sits over a vast piece of land measuring up to 256,142 hectares with 56,180 hectares used for capital facilities while 199,962 hectares will be set as an IKN development area.

Read: Govt to Prepare Tourism Development Plan for New Capital City

ANTARA | FRANCISCA CHRISTY ROSANA