JAKARTA — For the first time since it declared independence in 1945, Indonesia held its official national day celebrations outside Jakarta this year. Flag-raising ceremonies were observed simultaneously on Aug. 17 in Jakarta, on the island of Java, and in Nusantara, the country’s new capital city, currently being carved out the jungles of Borneo.
They don’t have a choice. About a third of Jakarta is already below sea level. It’s sinking fast and the rains are becoming heavier and unprecedented more often. About a quarter of the city will be underwater in 25 years.
It’s a gamble. Design a new planned city with 60% rainforest now and in 75 years it will be a new metropolis but better thought out and with sustainability in mind while other cities fall into the ocean.