IKN ‘Ghost Town’ Claims: Updates Demanded from OIKN

Indonesian Lawmaker Urges Capital Authority to Address ‘Ghost City’ Concerns

Indonesia’s Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) must proactively address recent reports from foreign media outlets labeling the new capital city as a “ghost city,” according to a senior member of the Indonesian Parliament. The calls for increased transparency adn accelerated development come as the aspiring project aims to become a fully functioning political center by 2028.

A member of Commission II of the DPR RI,Muhammad khozin,emphasized the need for OIKN to counter the negative perception with demonstrable progress and consistent public updates. “‘Ghost city’ carries a pejorative meaning, suggesting a bleak future,” Khozin stated in a press release issued on Saturday, November 1, 2025. “OIKN must respond to this label with accelerated performance, reporting all developments to the public.”

Khozin highlighted that the criticism surrounding public communication strategies played a significant role in the emergence of the negative label. He believes a thorough evaluation of OIKN’s communication governance is crucial for betterment.

Did you know? – Nusantara, meaning “archipelago,” is intended to symbolize Indonesia’s unity and geographic diversity. the location in east Kalimantan was chosen to reduce the burden on jakarta and promote more equitable regional development.

Recent reports indicate significant activity at the construction site, including the deployment of 20,000 construction workers for Phase II of the project. However,these efforts have not yet fully translated into positive international coverage.

The Indonesian government remains firmly committed to the IKN project,as evidenced by Presidential Regulation Number 79 of 2025. This regulation, stipulated by president Prabowo Subianto, updates the Government Work Plan for 2025 and prioritizes the acceleration of the new capital city’s development. The regulation specifically targets the establishment of the archipelago as the Political Capital of Indonesia by 2028, contingent upon the relocation of civil servants and the provision of adequate infrastructure.

“The political message from presidential Decree Number 79 of 2025 is that President Prabowo’s government is committed to the development and future of IKN,” Khozin asserted. “this should be a trigger for OIKN’s performance.” He further explained that the designation of IKN as the Political Capital clarifies the project’s objectives and should serve as a catalyst for improved performance across all aspects,including public communication.

Pro tip: – Effective communication about IKN should focus on showcasing completed infrastructure, highlighting economic opportunities, and emphasizing the benefits for Indonesian citizens, not just construction progress.

Khozin warned that continued negative press from international media could damage both the image of IKN and Indonesia as a whole. He stressed the importance of proactive mitigation and neutralization efforts by OIKN to counter pessimistic narratives.

Ultimately, the success of IKN hinges not only on physical construction but also on effectively communicating its vision and progress to the world.A robust and obvious communication strategy will be essential to dispel concerns and build confidence in the future of Indonesia’s new capital.

Reader question: – What specific steps should OIKN take to improve its public communication strategy and address international concerns about the project’s viability?

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Why, Who, What, and How did it end?

Why: The article addresses concerns about the perception of Indonesia’s new capital city, Nusantara (IKN), being labeled a “ghost city” by international media. This negative portrayal threatens the project’s image and Indonesia’s reputation.

Who: The key players are Muhammad Khozin, a member of the indonesian Parliament’s Commission II, who is urging the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) to improve its communication and accelerate development.President Prabowo Subianto is also central, having issued Presidential regulation Number 79 of 2025 reaffirming the government’s commitment to IKN.

What: The core issue is the need for OIKN to counter negative international press and demonstrate tangible