An Introduction to Jayapura, Papua, Indonesia

Abstract

The methodology used to obtain data and information to explore the research questions and themes of inquiry is elaborated. The rationale for using a case study approach is outlined as is the importance of Indonesia, a fast-growing country with the fourth largest population in the world. Indonesia is one of the economic ‘powerhouses’ of Asia, predicted to be among the world’s leading countries in the next decade in terms of economic growth, development and international affairs. The geography and history of administration in Jayapura is reviewed, shifting from Dutch colonial occupation to a strongly controlled province under Indonesia’s hierarchical system of government administration. Population, land use, land tenure, socio-cultural and ethnic aspects and the urban economy are assessed, noting much growth has occurred since Papua was designated an autonomous administrative region in 1993, and Jayapura now being an important strategic border city. The chapter concludes by focusing on the unique characteristics of urbanization as emerging in Jayapura, including informal settlements continuing to flourish alongside formal development.