RRI.CO.ID, Nusantara - The Nusantara Capital Authority (Otorita IKN) welcomed a delegation from North Kalimantan, including the Deputy Governor, indigenous leaders, and Dayak Kenyah community representatives, at the IKN Office on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation between the development of Nusantara, Indonesia’s new capital, and surrounding regions, particularly North Kalimantan, which serves a strategic position as the northern gateway of the country.

During the discussions, representatives from North Kalimantan presented various proposals, including support for the development of indigenous villages and cultural tourism, enhanced management of national parks, improved connectivity and transport networks, cooperation in education, and the establishment of regional distribution centers. In response to these aspirations, Head of the Nusantara Capital Authority, Basuki Hadimuljono, announced plans to designate North Kalimantan as an official partner region of IKN through formal regulations.

“In the future, we will establish North Kalimantan as a partner region of IKN so that cooperation in various development programs can be carried out more systematically and sustainably,” said Basuki Hadimuljono.

He added that this partnership is expected to strengthen interregional collaboration and integrate North Kalimantan more closely into Nusantara’s development ecosystem, including economic, logistical, and regional development opportunities. Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Ingkong Ala expressed appreciation for the dialogue and engagement provided by the IKN Authority.

“We thank Otorita IKN for this opportunity,” said Ingkong Ala.

Additionally, Chairman of the North Kalimantan Dayak Customary Council, Jhonny Laing Impang, reaffirmed the community’s support for Nusantara’s development.

“IKN is a great vision of our nation’s founders. Finally, we can build our own capital, and the Dayak community fully supports this development,” said Jhonny.

The collaboration between the Nusantara Capital Authority and North Kalimantan is expected to enhance regional connectivity, drive economic growth, and ensure that Nusantara’s development benefits surrounding areas.