During the inauguration of Indonesia’s new capital in Paser Penajam, President Jokowi wore traditional Dayak clothing gifted by Helena, a local Dayak leader." Photo credit: Helena.
Introduction
In February 2025, the Forum of Retired TNI Officers issued an eight-point statement directed to the Indonesian government. Signed by 103 generals, 73 admirals, 65 marshals, and 91 colonels, the statement holds considerable influence, particularly as it was endorsed by prominent military figures, including former Vice President General (Ret.) Try Sutrisno.
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Among the key points, point three expresses support for the Asta Cita work program of the Red and White Cabinet, with the exception of the new capital city (Ibu Kota Nusantara or IKN) development project. This report provides a contextual analysis of that position, with a focus on the Forum’s opposition to the IKN initiative.
Background
The Forum comprising retired high- and mid-ranking officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force presented its statement during a gathering with civil society leaders in Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta, on April 17, 2025. Displayed against the backdrop of the Indonesian red-and-white flag, the document was emblazoned with the message:
“... mendukung Program Kerja Kabinet Merah Putih yang dikenal dengan Asta Cita, kecuali untuk kelanjutan Pembangunan IKN."
In point 3, it is stated: "... supports the Work Program of the Red and White Cabinet, known as Asta Cita, except for the continuation of the IKN (new capital city) development."
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While the Forum endorses the broader Asta Cita vision, point three clearly rejects the continuation of the IKN project, deeming it misaligned with Indonesia’s current priorities and public interests.
Analysis of Point Three: Support for Asta Cita, Rejection of IKN
Context of the Asta Cita Program
Asta Cita, literally “Eight Aspirations”, is the strategic vision underpinning President Prabowo Subianto’s Red and White Cabinet. It encompasses eight pillars of national development, including efforts to enhance public welfare, ensure food security, and strengthen economic resilience.
The Forum’s support of Asta Cita signifies general alignment with the government’s vision for national progress. However, their explicit opposition to the IKN project signals a significant exception rooted in critical concerns.
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Reasons for Rejecting the IKN Development
The Forum’s stance against the IKN project is based on several considerations:
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Social and Environmental Concerns:
The Forum views the IKN project— alongside other national strategic projects such as PIK 2 and Rempang —as harmful to local communities and ecosystems. The relocation of the capital to East Kalimantan is considered a threat to indigenous communities and a potential cause of ecological degradation. -
Economic Prioritization:
In light of global economic uncertainty, including risks of downturns and international trade restrictions, the Forum questions the appropriateness of allocating massive state funds to IKN. They argue that investments would be better directed toward more immediate needs such as poverty reduction, education, and food security. -
Critique of the Previous Administration:
The IKN project was a flagship initiative of former President Joko Widodo. The Forum’s rejection can also be seen as a repudiation of past policies, reflecting their nationalist stance and a preference for redirecting national focus to core issues.
Implications of the Forum’s IKN Opposition
The Forum’s position has wide-reaching political and social implications:
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Political Pressure on the Government:
The demands put pressure on President Prabowo to reevaluate national development priorities. While the President, through Special Advisor Wiranto, acknowledged the Forum’s concerns on April 24, 2025, there has been no official indication of halting or modifying the IKN project. -
Divergence Within the TNI Retiree Community:
The Indonesian Army Retirees Association (PPAD) clarified on April 29, 2025, that the statement does not represent all retired officers. This highlights internal differences within the veteran military community and signals a lack of unanimous consensus. -
Public Engagement and Discourse:
The Forum’s position has gained traction on social media and has been publicly supported by legal scholars, including constitutional expert Refly Harun. This suggests that parts of civil society share the Forum’s reservations about the IKN development.
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Conclusion
Point three of the TNI Retired Officers’ Forum statement affirms support for President Prabowo’s Asta Cita vision but firmly opposes the continuation of the IKN project. The Forum bases its rejection on concerns over social displacement, environmental degradation, economic impracticality, and political legacy.
While President Prabowo has acknowledged the Forum’s input, responding to such demands is constrained by political complexity and existing commitments.
A constructive path forward would be for the government to engage in deeper dialogue with stakeholders—including retired military leaders—to ensure that development aligns with the broader public interest and environmental sustainability.
-- by the DRC Research Team
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