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Indonesia's Independence Day celebrated in planned new capital

Reuters A construction worker stands on a platform looking out at the future Presidential PalaceReuters

Indonesia has celebrated Independence Day in its future new capital city Nusantara for the first time - with scaled-back festivities as construction continues.

The country had hoped to officially inaugurate the city on the 79th anniversary of its declaration of independence in 1945 after centuries of Dutch rule and then Japanese occupation during World War Two.

But the project, on the island of Borneo, has been hit with construction delays and funding problems.

It is set to be the biggest legacy of outgoing President Joko Widodo, who attended events alongside his successor Prabowo Subianto.

EPA Men climb greasy poles in a race. Some stand on each other's shoulders against a backdrop of palm trees. EPA
Participants took part in a greased pole-race as part of Independence Day celebrations in Indonesia.
EPA Indonesian President Joko Widodo salutes on a stage decorated by a red carpet and flowers. EPA
It was back in 2019 that the idea for a new capital city on the island of Borneo was first proposed
EPA Two dancers in costume sit upon a platform carried by men. EPA
Traditional dancers performed as part of the ceremony
Reuters Prabowo Subianto talks with Indonesian President Joko WidodoReuters
Outgoing President Joko Widodo, right, will soon be replaced by Prabowo Subianto, left
EPA Children take part in a tug of war competition. EPA
Children also took part in events in Nusantara - translating as archipelago.