URBAN FORM AS A MIRROR TO SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL CHANGES : THE CASE OF JAKARTA'S KOTA TUA

Abstract

The theory “Form follows function” is largely demonstrated in urban forms, where it is generally established that physical changes are affected by social, economic and political forces governing the society. Using the study of Jakarta’s colonial district, Kota Tua as an illustration, the paper aims to investigate the degree of physical transformation as a result of socio-economic and political changes that have occurred in Jakarta throughout the years. Kota Tua, known as Batavia during colonization was dubbed “Jewel of the East” during its flourishing years in the 17th and 18th century. Unfortunately, the area experienced severe physical degradation in subsequent decades, leading to massive out-migration of its residents. The study first introduces the transformation of Kota Tua’s past land use during colonial period to equip the readers with necessary historical context that shaped the district’s present state. The research then focuses on Kota Tua’s urban form by comparing land use patterns in 1930, 1980 and 2012. The significance of the district as a commercial centre during the colonial era in 1930 seems to be fading away as other land uses infiltrate Kota Tua. It is also established that deeper social, economic and political issues account for the physical disintegration of Kota Tua’s environment today. Through an analysis of the revitalisation works that are materialized and the corresponding social, political and economic conditions of Jakarta from 1970s to 2012, it is concluded that the three forces work dependently in creating physical changes that are presently observed in the district.