Studium Generale “Studying Frontiers of Development in Indonesia”

The Studium Generale “Studying Frontiers of Development in Indonesia” took place on Monday, August 7, 2023. This event was a collaborative discussion between the Faculty of Geography UGM, Faculty of Forestry UGM, and Utrecht University, focusing on the implications of relocating Indonesia’s capital to East Kalimantan. The speakers were Dr. Kei Otsuki (Associate Professor from Utrecht University) and Prof. Rijanta (Lecturer in the Regional Development Study Program, Gadjah Mada University), with moderation by Ir. Rahmat Aris Pratomo, S.T., M.T., M.Sc., IPM (Lecturer in the Regional and Urban Planning Engineering Study Program, Kalimantan Institute of Technology).

Dr. Kei Otsuki’s presentation highlighted that borders are often contested areas that are challenging to regulate. Despite clear legal regulations, the issue of expanding borders in the Indonesian capital persists and is expected to exceed formal urbanization border plans. This could impact the environment, particularly mangrove forests. According to Dr. Otsuki, relocating the National Capital is a complex process that requires comprehensive analysis to ensure sustainable and inclusive urban development. He emphasized the need for inter- and transdisciplinary approaches to science and collaborative research.

Prof. Rijanta’s presentation discussed how relocating the National Capital could accelerate urbanization, leading to a population boom in East Kalimantan Province. Reports suggest that population growth in East Kalimantan could reach 3.77% in 2022 and double within the next 18 years. Prof. Rijanta proposed using the Desakota concept within the Forest City framework to address these urbanization issues. The Desakota concept characterizes a rural landscape with a non-agricultural economic base and is likely to become an urbanization pattern in South Kalimantan Province where inter-city corridors will play a significant role.

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