HE Sten Frimodt Nielsen, the Danish Ambassador to Indonesia, visited East Kalimantan to explore investment opportunities and Denmark's contribution to Indonesia's new capital (IKN). East Kalimantan's Governor's Representative, Akmal Malik, stated that Denmark's interest in the IKN through the East Kalimantan Provincial Government aims to assess the readiness of buffer zones to prevent disparities between the IKN and its surrounding areas. Denmark aims to prevent disparities between the IKN and its buffer zones by providing insights on their roles, despite lacking experience in new capital projects. However, Denmark's expertise in development equity is unquestionable, and they stand ready to assist in environmental issues. Disparities between the IKN and its buffer zones are a concern, touching upon social, economic, and cultural aspects. The buffer zones include Balikpapan, Samarinda, Kutai Kartanegara, Penajam Paser Utara, and Paser.
In the long term, all districts and cities in East Kalimantan will become buffer zones for the IKN. HE Sten Frimodt Nielsen inquired about the current infrastructure readiness of East Kalimantan and the IKN, as well as the indigenous population and general conditions. Akmal Malik highlighted that among the planned new capital provinces in Kalimantan, only East Kalimantan has comprehensive infrastructure, boasting international airports, seaports, and toll roads. During the visit, the Danish delegation inspected three locations: the Nusantara Technology House, which explains the concept and development of the IKN; the planned diplomatic compound area; and a Miniature Tropical Rainforest, adjacent to the IKN's glamping site. Akmal Malik clarified that he facilitated the Danish Ambassador's visit as part of East Kalimantan's effort to introduce itself and assist any contributions to the IKN. Accompanying HE Sten Frimodt Nielsen were Mr. Per Brixen, Deputy Head of Mission; Mr. Jacob Jepsen, Head of Trade; Ms. Pamela Alberta Mondino, Spouse of the Ambassador; and Mr. Lesmana Hatanto, Danish Honorary Consul Surabaya. Meanwhile, Akmal Malik was accompanied by Rahmad Mas’ud, Mayor of Balikpapan; Makmur Marbun, Acting Regent of Penajam Paser Utara; Ririn Sari Dewi, Head of the East Kalimantan Tourism Office; Lisa Hasliana, Head of the General Bureau; and Irhamsyah, Head of the Development Administration Bureau.
