Revitalizing Culture, Strengthening Urban Life: Old Town of Jakarta
Participants experienced at first-hand the explanation on Jakarta’s Kota Tua (Old Town) revamping efforts.
GETTING to know Jakarta City entails keen observation and patience as the metropolis slowly reveals its rich character to visitors, and even to its residents. As in other places, the ‘soul’ of the city may be easily lost amidst the usual urban ailments. The Jakarta Capital City Government has taken initiatives to turn this case around and highlight the city’s spirit and unique history. An Urban Renewal Workshop was held last July wherein a set of concrete recommendations for Jakarta was produced, together with partners including UCLG ASPAC (with Culture Committee members), UCLG, and Connective Cities, supporting their effort in renewing the Old Town (Kota Tua) area which is the center of the history of Jakarta. Participants from Jakarta’s relevant agencies found the three-day workshop useful and practical, while those from over 10 other cities gladly shared their experiences to encourage the host in their well-intentioned project.