ADB, Australia, and Indonesia Partner to Develop Water-Sensitive Nusantara

The NCA, established in March 2022, is a ministerial-level agency that reports directly to the Indonesian President.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Government of Australia, and the Government of Indonesia have announced a joint initiative to develop Nusantara, Indonesia's new capital, as a water-sensitive city. This announcement was made during the 10th World Water Forum, highlighting the collaborative effort to integrate water management with urban planning and design in Nusantara, envisioned as a smart and sustainable forest city.

Key Elements of the Initiative

Water-Sensitive City Development: The initiative aims to redefine urban water management in Nusantara, making it sustainable, resilient, and livable for future generations. This includes developing and testing a water-sensitive management guideline for the new capital.

Capacity Building: The Nusantara Capital Authority (NCA) will benefit from enhanced staff capacity through comprehensive offline and online training programs. This will equip the NCA with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage water resources effectively.

Collaborative Efforts: The support from ADB and the Government of Australia is part of a broader effort to ensure that Nusantara is developed as a smart, sustainable forest city. This partnership emphasizes the importance of strategic alliances and innovative solutions in achieving sustainable urban development.

Statements from Key Stakeholders

Neeta Pokhrel, ADB Director for Water and Urban Development Sector Group: "Through our collaborative efforts, we are pioneering the Water Sensitive City initiative in Nusantara, to redefine urban water management in Indonesia. Our goal is not only sustainability but also resilience and liveability for future generations."

Bambang Susantono, NCA Chairman: "As we embark on the journey to build Nusantara, we recognize the pivotal role of Water Sensitive City in shaping our urban landscape. With strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, we are forging a path toward sustainable development and a resilient future for all."

Patrick Gorman, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister of Australia: "The development of Indonesia's new capital city, Nusantara, is a huge undertaking and good water management is key to creating a world-class city. Australia is pleased to support Indonesia in its ambition to develop Ibu Kota Nusantara as a sustainable forest city."

Role of the Nusantara Capital Authority (NCA)

The NCA, established in March 2022, is a ministerial-level agency that reports directly to the Indonesian President. Its responsibilities include planning and constructing the new capital, overseeing the government's transition to the new city, and eventually managing Nusantara. The NCA's role is crucial in ensuring that the new capital is built with a focus on sustainable water management and urban planning.

The collaboration between the ADB, Australia, and Indonesia to develop Nusantara as a water-sensitive city represents a significant step toward sustainable urban development. By integrating water management with urban planning, this initiative aims to create a resilient and livable city that meets the needs of future generations.