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In Nusantara, Robert Templer brings to life the story of Indonesia’s new capital, being built in the forests of Kalimantan. The new city, planned for completion in 2045, aims to be a green and smart city, a model for future development in the world’s fourth most populous country. Although the presidential palace and several ministries have risen out of an area of plantation land more than 1000 kilometers from the old capital Jakarta, the project faces many risks. The question remains whether Indonesia can build a city that will be a model for future urbanism or if it will be a jungle white elephant.
Colourfully narrates a bizarre three-day extravaganza thrown by Iran’s Pahlavi dynasty, alleged at the time to have cost hundreds of millions of dollars. The event, attended by leaders from around the world, ultimately helped to precipitate the Shah’s downfall.
“Writing about a city while it’s being built allows us to express our complex feelings toward it. Nusantara captures all of this, offering a reflective document we can return to if and when the city materialises.”
“A short, snappy guide that puts Indonesia’s grand plans for a new capital city in global context.”
“Robert Templer’s Nusantara skilfully weaves a timely narrative on Indonesia’s controversial new capital blending political issues with the financial and environmental challenges. He very nicely sets all of this in the historical and global context of inventing new cities.”
Book Reviews
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