Case study – Jembarten Besi, Indonesia
An informal settlement of over 4000 people 4km northwest of Central Jakarta – the capital of
Indonesia, Southeast Asia
Despite embracing democratic and decentralised government, disparities between socio-economic
groups and subnational regions remain substantial.
Rapidly growing NIC of 256 million people, 5th largest country in the world.
Wealthiest 10% control 30% household income; statistical surveys underestimate social disparities
as they partially exclude top incomes.
Rapid expansion in capital-intensive sectors but limited in labour-intensive low skill sectors – sectoral
imbalance exacerbates inequality problems.
Future
Persistent social inequalities due to difficulty of urban authority planning in slum areas.
Jakarta Housing and Administrative Buildings Agency identified 392 ‘community units’ – slum areas
planned for improvement, but slum clearance accelerates inequalities in surrounding areas and
separates communities.
Prevalence of insecure employment makes economic development difficult
Northwood, Irvine, Southern California
Community in northern part of Irvine city, Orange County, California
Edge city = substantial urban development on fringe of existing conurbation. Often formally planned
and relatively self sufficient
Future
Regarded as one of highest ranked US cities for factors of safety and management.
Even during economic downturns retains reputation for high-paid employment.