Urban Network in Sumatra Island

Abstract

Studies of a region’s growth can only be conducted thoroughly considering its position in a larger urban system. In this system a region interacts with another region resulting in a complex urban network. Inter-urban interactions manifest in various forms such as population migration, trade, or information exchange. This study shows that urban centrality based on its interactions differs from urban centrality based on size. These interactions can be seen from the intensity of urban functions based on labor as well as interactions that can be seen from the intent on movement. This research is aimed at explaining the centrality patterns of urban interaction in Indonesia as the first identification on the relationship of cities on the island of Sumatra based on gravity model on economy and passenger movement based. There is a positive relationship between transportation centrality and economic centrality in Sumatra Island. The highest centrality in Sumatra island can be found in the Medan Area and the lowest centrality in Bengkulu.