TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - This year's planned August 17 ceremony in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN), Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, is the first time in history. The raising of the Red and White flag in IKN will be followed by a hybrid at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta.

Because not all supporting facilities are ready, the organizers are forced to do various 'acrobatics' to prepare them. A jumbo budget was poured out to make the event a success, starting from renting hundreds of cars and buses, using 12 ASN towers, to deploying 191 hotel rooms to accommodate invited guests.

Jokowi: I think it's reasonable

Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) understands that the budget for the celebration of the 79th Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia at IKN has swelled. Because the event was held in two places. The one other place is at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta.

"Yes, it used to be only in one place, because there is a transition, so it becomes in two places. But it's not a leap. I think this is normal, reasonable, and also the budget is in (the hands of) the Ministry of State Secretariat," Jokowi said after the Like Festival event at the Jakarta Convention Center, Central Jakarta, on Friday, August 9, 2024.

Moeldoko: Rental rates for Indonesia's Independence Day needs at IKN cannot be equated with the general situation.

Presidential Chief of Staff (KSP) Moeldoko said the nominal rental rates for transportation and lodging needs for the 79th Indonesian Independence Day in IKN, East Kalimantan, cannot be compared to the general situation.

"The meaning is not to be equated 'apple to apple' with the general situation," he said.

For Moeldoko, the use of APBN (state budget) funds for the needs of national day celebrations in Indonesia is nothing expensive, as long as the available funds are not used carelessly and can be properly controlled.

"Yes, for me, if it is for the benefit of the country's birthday then there is nothing expensive, as long as it is not used accordingly, and everything can be controlled," he said.

This also includes hotel accommodation for important guests or VIPs and VVIPs during their stay at IKN in order to fulfill the invitation to the August 17, 2024 Ceremony. Moeldoko said the conditions at IKN, which is under construction, are still situational and full of limitations, including accommodation.

HATTA MUARABAGJA | RIRI RAHAYU | DANIEL A. FAJRI

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