Nusantara Has Surpassed My Expectations. Indonesia’s New Capital Could Become One of the World’s Greatest Cities
By Jamie McIntyre, Australian National Review Political Commentator
Australian political commentator and LUX Property Group founder Jamie McIntyre says Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara, has exceeded every expectation after recently accepting an invitation to visit the emerging city in East Kalimantan.
McIntyre, who now lives in Bali and is the founder of LUX Property Group, recently announced plans for Nesara Bay City, an eco focused mini city planned for South Lombok, before travelling to Nusantara to inspect the progress of Indonesia’s ambitious new capital.
Nusantara Has Surpassed My Expectations. Indonesia’s New Capital Could Become One of the World’s Greatest Cities
By Jamie McIntyre, Australian National Review Political Commentator
Australian political commentator and LUX Property Group founder Jamie McIntyre says Indonesia’s… pic.twitter.com/EuMLDoOfzW
— jamiemcintyre (@jamiemcintyre21) June 26, 2026
“I was delighted to accept the invitation,” Mr. McIntyre said.
“I’ve travelled extensively around the world, but Nusantara has totally surpassed my expectations.”
“Many people still think of it as a construction site. That simply isn’t true anymore. It is already a functioning city. There are government offices, apartments, hotels, restaurants, beautiful landscaped parks and thousands of people living and working there every day.”
According to Indonesia’s latest official population survey, the broader Nusantara Capital region is already home to approximately 147,000 residents, with the Government ultimately planning for a population of around 1.9 million people by 2045 as the city is progressively developed. (Jakarta Globe)
Mr. McIntyre said what impressed him most was not simply the architecture, but the city’s vision.
“It feels like you’re walking through a scene from the movie Avatar. The city is futuristic, spacious and incredibly green, yet it blends beautifully with nature rather than replacing it.”
“I honestly believe Nusantara will become one of the world’s greatest cities.”
He believes many observers have underestimated the city’s long term appeal.
“I think people have significantly underestimated just how many Indonesians and foreigners will ultimately want to move here.”
“The quality of the planning is extraordinary. Wide boulevards, green open spaces, modern buildings and nature all exist together. It is unlike almost any capital city I have visited.”
Mr. McIntyre said Indonesians should be proud of what is being created.
“This is much more than a new administrative capital.”
“I believe Nusantara will become one of Indonesia’s great tourist destinations. Millions of visitors from around the world will eventually want to experience one of the most ambitious city developments ever undertaken.”
As a property developer, Mr. McIntyre said he could also see investment opportunities in the future.
“I would love the opportunity one day to build a hotel and resort here.”
“I’ll definitely be back.”
Mr. McIntyre said his visit reinforced his confidence in Indonesia’s future and complemented LUX Property Group’s vision for Nesara Bay City in South Lombok, which is also being designed as a sustainable, eco conscious community integrating modern development with the surrounding natural environment.
While in Indonesia, Mr. McIntyre is also finalising a proposal to submit to the Indonesian Government outlining ideas to further enhance Jakarta’s international profile and global recognition.
He notes that Greater Jakarta has recently been recognised as the world’s largest urban agglomeration, with an estimated 41.9 million residents, and continues to grow rapidly. (IDN Financials)
“Jakarta deserves far greater international recognition than it currently receives,” he said.
“Indonesia is becoming one of the world’s most important economies and one of its most exciting investment destinations. After seeing Nusantara firsthand, I believe the country’s best years are still ahead.”
