IKN Authority Denies Excluding Balik Tribe from Nusantara Capital Activities

The Deputy for Social, Culture and Community Empowerment of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) Authority, Alimuddin, has denied claims that the Balik tribe has been excluded from activities in IKN. The statement was made in response to remarks by Balik tribal figure Sibukdi, who, alongside the Indigenous Peoples Alliance of the Archipelago (AMAN), filed a judicial review of Article 21 of Law Number 21 of 2023 concerning IKN at the Constitutional Court. Alimuddin stated that while every citizen has the right to file a lawsuit, the basis of feeling overlooked should be re-examined. He asserted that the IKN Authority has frequently involved Sibukdi as a representative of the Balik tribe in various activities, and that he has always attended, with invitations and photographic evidence available. He expressed hope that the concerns voiced genuinely represent the Balik community, but noted it is inappropriate if personal interests are involved.

Alimuddin also refuted claims that land acquisition compensation in IKN was conducted forcibly. He explained that all land acquisition processes have followed proper procedures and that the government has never exerted pressure on residents. Compensation is paid according to the clear legal basis and the price set by the Public Appraisal Services Office (KJPP), without any bargaining process. He urged the Balik tribal figure to understand the regulations properly to avoid misperception, adding that the Paser Balik community is often prioritised in cultural preservation activities. For instance, they were invited to provide input on the design of a living museum, and youth from the Paser and Balik tribes have been prepared for its future operation, including participating in comparative studies and discussions with experts.

Furthermore, Alimuddin highlighted that the IKN Authority, through its Environment and Natural Resources Deputy, has facilitated official recognition for the indigenous community in Mentawir Village, Sepaku District, with a decree issued several months ago. Regarding clean water issues, he asked residents to be patient as the pipeline network from the Sepaku Semoi dam to the intake is currently under construction. He welcomed criticism but stressed it must be based on facts and field data. Alimuddin also revealed that after the media reports, many Balik residents contacted him to say that Sibukdi’s statements were personal and did not represent the Balik indigenous community, as they had not been consulted beforehand.