New City Development: Creating a Better Future and Added Value

    The development of new cities requires comprehensive planning that can respond to the challenges of the pace of urbanization such as environmental sustainability, climate change, and socio-economic crisis. It goes without saying that new cities should be constructed for the urban future to meet the growing social and economic needs of populations. The development of new cities represents a tremendous opportunity to boost economic development and modernize infrastructure. Urban technology development and innovation play a significant role in creating a smart city as one of the solutions to urban challenges. A sustainable approach is also important to ensure the fulfillment of future needs through maintaining the ongoing viability of resources. 
    Smart city development aims to produce a resilient and sustainable city by producing better city services, from improvements in transportation, energy, and water resources to waste disposal and health services. Smart cities can improve a city’s ability to use natural resources efficiently, make public transportation more attractive, and further provide data to planners and decision makers to allow them to allocate resources appropriately. In other words, the smart city concept contributes to the formation of a high-quality, healthy, and regenerative built environment that is modeled on a circular economy and has an overall positive impact on the environment.
    As in the construction of mega-projects, which are prone to experiencing cost overruns and delays in project development time, the creation of a new city requires careful preparation in terms of planning and project implementation. Well-prepared technical, financial, and good governance frameworks need to be in place before the construction of a new city can be carried out. Implementing accountable and prudent good governance in the development process is among the important factors in the construction of a mega-project. 
     Science and technology development plays a significant role in achieving sustainable development by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of new and more long-lasting ways of building and living. Investments in green technology, more streamlined and targeted processes, safer materials, and improved performances and outcomes are some of the results of such development. Technological advances in utilizing renewable energy resources, building urban water systems and sustainable public infrastructure, and producing environmentally friendly materials and products are among the pathways along which technology will significantly contribute to sustainable new city development.
      Indonesia is planning to move its capital to a different island, from Jakarta to a new city named Nusantara in East Kalimantan. The new capital’s development will begin with the construction of major infrastructure, including the presidential palace and government buildings, and the construction of residential housing, social-commercial precincts, and basic facilities in the main area of the new capital. Public-private partnership, along with long-term modern infrastructure and anchor institutions, are the basic components needed for a successful new capital city.
       The new capital city is also expected to focus on innovation and entrepreneurial environments to foster growth and investment to boost economic performance as well as to improve citizens’ quality of life. Regional development will be facilitated to represent a nation’s progress and to serve as a catalyst for building and spreading centers of productivity and economic activity. An inclusive city for all.