Jakarta, Indonesia – The sprawling metropolis of Jakarta, a city perpetually negotiating its identity between tradition and modernity, offers a compelling case study in urban interdependence. It’s a concept explored in the work of Abidin Kusno, whose research, including his books Politik Ekonomi Perumahan Rakyat &. Utopia Jakarta (2012) and Jakarta: The City of a Thousand Dimensions (2023), examines the complex relationships between power, economics, and the lived experiences of Jakarta’s residents. Kusno’s work, alongside observations from conversations with figures like farid rakun, highlights how the city’s development is not a top-down process, but a constant negotiation between formal governance and the informal networks that shape daily life.
This interdependence isn’t merely a theoretical framework; it’s a palpable reality for the millions who call Jakarta home. It’s visible in the kampung – urban villages – that exist alongside gleaming skyscrapers, in the informal economies that thrive in the shadows of corporate giants, and in the constant interplay between state control and community resilience. Understanding this dynamic is crucial to grasping the challenges and opportunities facing Jakarta as it continues to evolve.
The idea of “building ideas from the middle,” or “Ing Madya Mangun Karsa,” a principle central to the educational philosophy of Ki Hajar Dewantara, founder of the Perguruan Tamansiswa school, resonates deeply within this context. As noted by Edward Ridwan in detikSulsel, this concept emphasizes the importance of collaborative effort and finding solutions through dialogue and mutual understanding. This philosophy is currently being re-imagined by the art collective ruangrupa, whose work, Perguruan Tamanruru, staged at ArtJog 2025 in Yogyakarta, directly references Dewantara’s original school (YouTube). It’s a testament to the enduring relevance of this idea in contemporary Indonesia.
A History of Negotiated Space
Jakarta’s history is one of constant negotiation. During the governorship of Ali Sadikin (1966-1977), the city underwent significant modernization, but even then, the process was shaped by the realities on the ground. As documented by Dipusip and Intisari, Sadikin’s administration, whereas ambitious, had to contend with the existing social fabric and the informal power structures that permeated the city (Dipusip, Intisari). This involved a complex relationship with the preman – a vernacular term for individuals operating outside the law, often wielding significant influence – who filled gaps in state authority, for better or worse.
The Asian financial crisis of 1997-98, known in Indonesia as “Krismon,” further exposed these vulnerabilities. As Takao Fukuchi details in “Inflationary Burst and Free Fall of the Indonesian Economy during the Krismon Period” (The Developing Economies, 2000), the crisis had a devastating impact on Jakarta’s economy and social fabric (The Developing Economies). It was a period of widespread unrest and social upheaval, forcing communities to rely on their own networks of support and resilience.
The Role of Art and Activism
In the wake of the Krismon, a wave of alternative art spaces and collectives emerged, seeking to challenge dominant narratives and provide platforms for marginalized voices. Ardi Yunanto’s Fixer: Exhibition of Alternative Spaces & Art Groups in Indonesia (2010) documents this period, highlighting the role of these spaces in fostering critical dialogue and social change (Serrum). These initiatives often operated outside the mainstream, relying on a spirit of collaboration and mutual support.
Abidin Kusno’s work also explores the shifting dynamics of urban governance under Governor Sutiyoso (1997-2007), noting a tension between nationalist urbanism and the realities of everyday life in Jakarta. This tension continues to shape the city today, as evidenced by the ongoing struggles of urban poor communities and the efforts of organizations like the Urban Poor Consortium (UPC), established in 1997, to advocate for their rights (Urban Poor Consortium). The relationship between state power, informal networks, and community resistance remains a defining feature of Jakarta’s urban landscape.
Contemporary Expressions of Interdependence
Today, this interdependence manifests in new and evolving ways. The rise of pro-rakyat (pro-people) media initiatives, for example, reflects a desire for alternative narratives and a more inclusive public sphere. The work of art collectives like Serrum and Grafis Huru Hara (GHH) demonstrates a commitment to social engagement and artistic experimentation (Grafis Huru Hara). These groups often operate on the margins, relying on collaboration and resourcefulness to achieve their goals.
The lumbung values championed by ruangrupa – humor, generosity, local anchoring, independence, regeneration, transparency, and sufficiency – offer a framework for understanding this collaborative ethos. These values, as outlined on the documenta fifteen website, emphasize the importance of shared resources and mutual support (documenta fifteen). They represent a rejection of top-down approaches and a commitment to building a more equitable and sustainable urban future.
However, this landscape is not without its complexities. The recent political climate, including the rise of Prabowo Subianto, whose past has been marked by allegations of human rights abuses (as discussed in a Deconstructed podcast with Allan Nairn, February 2024), raises concerns about the future of democratic space and civic engagement (The Intercept). The ongoing negotiation between state power and community resilience will undoubtedly continue to shape Jakarta’s trajectory.
Looking Ahead
Jakarta’s future hinges on its ability to navigate these complex dynamics. The city’s ongoing development, including infrastructure projects and urban renewal initiatives, will require a commitment to inclusivity and a recognition of the interconnectedness of its various communities. The next key moment to watch will be the implementation of new urban planning policies following the recent elections, and how those policies address the needs of Jakarta’s most vulnerable populations.
What are your thoughts on the future of Jakarta? Share your perspectives in the comments below, and please share this article with others interested in urban development and social change.
