Part 8/12:
Economic Considerations and Funding
The project’s hefty price tag—initially estimated at approximately $33 billion—raises questions about funding sources and economic sustainability. The government aims to attract public-private partnerships and private investments to supplement public spending, emphasizing the city’s role as a global showcase of Indonesia’s development ambitions.
Critics argue that the funds might be better invested in rehabilitating Jakarta and other major cities suffering from flooding, traffic, and infrastructure decay. They point out the urgency of addressing existing urban issues rather than diverting resources to a relatively untested new city.