Dayak Community Strengthens Role in Nusantara

RRI.CO.ID, Nusantara - The role of indigenous communities in developing Indonesia’s future capital continues to strengthen. Head of the Nusantara Capital Authority Basuki Hadimuljono opened the Seventh Congress of the East Kalimantan Dayak Association (PDKT).

The congress was held at the Multifunction Hall of Joint Office Building Three in Nusantara’s core government area. The event took place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, and gathered Dayak representatives from across East Kalimantan.

The congress served as a consolidation forum ahead of Nusantara’s role as Indonesia’s political capital in 2028. Basuki emphasized that the Dayak association plays a key role in safeguarding social and cultural sustainability.

“I hope this Seventh Congress strengthens PDKT’s role in strategic steps to develop Nusantara,” Basuki said. “Personally, I have felt PDKT’s strong support for the sustainability of Nusantara’s development,” he added.

Basuki also noted that around 30 percent of Nusantara Capital Authority employees are from East Kalimantan. This reflects OIKN’s commitment to inclusive participation of local communities.

In addition, OIKN is developing a cultural center as a future public space for community activities. The facility is designed to support cultural expression and social interaction.

PDKT Chairman Syaharie Jaang described Nusantara as a pivotal opportunity for improving Dayak human resources. He stressed the importance of education and skills to ensure meaningful participation in development.

“With the capital moving to Kalimantan, we must prepare ourselves to become a competitive Dayak community,” Jaang said. “Without education and capacity building, we risk being marginalized in our own homeland,” he added.

East Kalimantan Vice Governor Seno Aji also attended the congress and expressed provincial government support. He praised the congress as a platform strengthening indigenous participation in regional development.

Hundreds of participants attended the congress, including customary leaders and community representatives. They came from various regions across East Kalimantan.

Through this forum, OIKN reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development in Nusantara. Indigenous communities are positioned as active partners in shaping a sustainable capital toward 2028.