SEAToday.com, Penajam Paser Utara - The Capital City of Nusantara (OIKN) authorities have planted 600 tree seedlings in the Miniature Tropical Rainforest of Nusantara, located within the Government Center Core Area (KIPP) in Penajam Paser Utara Regency, East Kalimantan Province.

“We planted 600 tree seedlings in designated holes within the Miniature Tropical Rainforest of the Archipelago,” said OIKN Head Basuki Hadimuljono in Sepaku, North Penajam Paser, on Friday, December 13, 2024, as reported by Antara.

The initiative involved planting various tree species such as balangeran, ulin meranti, durian, guava, salam, and rambutan. This effort aims to transform Nusantara, Indonesia's new capital city, into a diverse and sustainable forest ecosystem.

The tree planting aligns with Nusantara’s development target of achieving 75 percent green space, comprising 65 percent protected areas and 10 percent designated for food security.

The "forest city" concept of Indonesia’s new capital emphasizes balancing urban development with environmental conservation. Planting trees is seen as a vital step toward ecological sustainability.

The forest city vision seeks to create a sustainable urban environment by conserving, managing, and restoring forest ecosystems. This nature-based solution addresses economic, social, and environmental challenges.

Efforts include forest rehabilitation, sustainable forest management, expanding green spaces, spatial planning, environmental management, and fostering community participation.

Tree planting activities in and around Nusantara continue regularly to embed environmental responsibility into the local culture.

“Tree planting reflects OIKN's commitment to promoting greening initiatives,” said OIKN Deputy for Environment and Natural Resources Myrna Safitri.

This ongoing program aims to restore the degraded Kalimantan tropical forest ecosystem, transforming Nusantara into a thriving ecological hub.

“Tree planting fosters greater environmental awareness among the community and OIKN’s extended family. It underscores the importance of restoring degraded forests and land through sustainable planting practices,” added Myrna Safitri.