Urban Infrastructure Changes and Their Influences on Inhabitants’ Well-Being: A Case Study of Transcultural Heritage Conservation in Lasem, Indonesia

Abstract

ABSTRACT This research examined the role of the infrastructure and city element of Lasem, which does not merely form the appearance of the city but also shapes its identity. The distinctive architectural element reflects its richness of culture of a hundred years of transactional life of the area, whereas the infrastructure – the streets, greenery and rivers – is the enabler of this process. The ancient river transported goods while at the same time delivering its technique and exchange of creativity between the island and the continents. A hundred years later, the same infrastructure is used for the path used for rituals where it becomes a highway. The inhabitants, from multiple cultures, adapted the situation by still carrying out the procession along the same path. Even though several efforts to minimize the risk have been made, it would be better if urban policy would consider this aspect. Several methods were used in this research. Firstly, a case study method used to examine the distinctiveness of Lasem; secondly, the diachronic method has been applied to show the transformation of the city. The research results show that Lasem, with its ancient pattern of infrastructure, has become a home of diverse religions and sub-ethnicities. The infrastructure requires better consideration, due to its bearing the ancient proof of a living civilization.