VOINews, Samarinda: Over 7,300 visitors flocked to the Core Governmental Area (KIPP) of Indonesia’s new capital city, Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN), in East Kalimantan during the two-day Christmas holidays on December 25 and 26, 2024. This surge in visitation was supported by improved public services for those interested in exploring the developing city.
"On December 25, we recorded 2,500 visitors, followed by 4,800 visitors on December 26," said Troy Pantouw, Special Staff for Public Communication at the IKN Authority, during a phone interview from Samarinda on Friday.
The high level of public enthusiasm for IKN was reflected in a significant increase in downloads of the IKNOW application, which added 15,000 new users since early December. Total downloads now stand at 99,600. Since opening for visits in September, over 112,800 people have registered via IKNOW to tour Nusantara.
The IKN Authority has ensured readiness in infrastructure and services to accommodate this growing interest while maintaining public safety and comfort.
To facilitate visitor access and convenience, several measures have been implemented, including: Optimized road access, Electric shuttle buses for transportation within the core area, and Additional facilities, such as expanded parking areas and health posts.
Real-time monitoring has also been enhanced using AI-powered Video Management Systems to manage crowd control and ensure security across public spaces, such as Rest Areas and Plaza Seremoni.
During the Christmas and New Year holidays, integrated health services were made available for visitors. Medical teams and ambulances were stationed at the Rest Area and Plaza Seremoni health posts, with Hermina Nusantara Hospital and Mayapada Nusantara Hospital prepared for emergency referrals.
Additionally, free drinking water stations and café outlets, including Excelso, remained open at Gedung Kemenko 1 and the UMKM Gallery, providing further convenience to visitors.
Troy highlighted that the holiday season offered a unique opportunity for the public to witness firsthand the progress of Nusantara as Indonesia's future capital city.
"We are committed to delivering a comfortable and safe visit experience through integrated facilities while ensuring that public access does not disrupt ongoing construction activities," he stated.
The IKN Authority’s efforts demonstrate a balance between showcasing the city’s development and maintaining the momentum of its construction as it moves closer to becoming a symbol of Indonesia’s future./ANTARA
