ABSTRACT Rural colonization in Indonesia is a dynamic spatial phenomenon which contributes to the constant geographical remodelling of the archipelago. It is justified by the extreme disequilibrium in the distribution of the population which is characteristic of this country. New Javanese villages were set up under the auspices of the colonial government. This initiative was continued after Independence under the name of “Transmigration” and remained a priority for the various governments that followed Planned rural colonization has often resulted in creating population enclaves whose development remain limited A spontaneous movement has taken place in its wake. Migratory and settlements processes differ in the way they fit into and are an extension of local structures. Rural colonization can be a dynamic element for the development of surrounding rural areas, however, when appropriate policies are lacking, it can also cause these to deteriorate.