Rural-to-urban reclassification and its impact on urbanization in Indonesia: a case study of West Java Province

Abstract

Rural-urban reclassification is a process in which rural areas evolve into urban areas, leading to significant changes in population, economy, and infrastructure. This process is a component of urbanization. Generally, urbanization studies focus on major cities and their surrounding areas as rural regions transform into urban ones. Meanwhile, according to the latest reclassification data, the conversion of rural areas into urban ones has also occurred in locations distant from existing city centers, thus creating new urban areas. This article’s objective is to analyze the pattern of rural-to-urban reclassification in West Java, focusing on the gradual shift of localities from rural to urban. The study employs descriptive analysis of statistical data related to rural-urban transformation, population size, and growth. The study reveals that the rural-urban transformation in West Java is multifaceted and dynamic, encompassing challenges and opportunities. The study’s findings underscore the need for effective policies and strategies to manage the urbanization process and address the challenges related to rural-urban transformation.