Papua to IKN: My Office Relocation Story

Gibran Rakabuming Raka Signals Flexibility on Office Locations, Awaits Presidential Direction

Indonesia’s Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has affirmed his willingness to establish a working office in either Papua or the new capital city of Nusantara (IKN) in East Kalimantan, deferring to the direction of President Prabowo Subianto. This comes amid ongoing discussions regarding the optimal deployment of the Vice President’s office and the future of IKN.

During a working visit to Riau province on Monday, July 28, 2025, Gibran acknowledged shifting proposals regarding his office location. “Yesterday I was told to have an office in Papua, now at IKN, moved and moved on,” he stated, indicating a readiness to adapt to evolving priorities.

The Vice President emphasized that he is awaiting specific instructions from President Prabowo regarding the location. “What is clear is this, I as the President’s assistant, [am] ready to be assigned anywhere, in Papua, at IKN, we are waiting for the President’s orders,” Gibran confirmed.

Gibran further explained that his approach prioritizes direct engagement with the field. “As the President’s assistant, I must be prepared and… I could have an office anywhere, because I was more often in the field, ensuring the programs, the vision and mission of the President was well executed,” he said.

Initial reports suggested a potential office in Papua, but Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra clarified that this would function as the secretariat for the Papuan Special Autonomy Development Agency (Otsus). According to Yusril, the office would be staffed by personnel supporting the Vice President’s role as chair of the agency, alongside ministers and representatives from Papuan provinces.

The suggestion for an IKN-based office originated with Saan Mustopa, Deputy Chairperson of the NasDem Party and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. Speaking on Friday, July 18, 2025, Saan argued that establishing a Vice Presidential presence in IKN is crucial to justify the substantial investment in the new capital city. “So that there is an activity and so that the buildings that have been built are not neglected,” Saan stated, adding that ongoing maintenance costs would be significantly higher without regular occupancy.

Saan’s proposal underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the development and purpose of IKN, particularly as some question its designation as the nation’s capital. The Vice President’s willingness to comply with the President’s direction suggests a commitment to both regional development in Papua and the potential future of Nusantara.