About Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital and largest city of Indonesia, has achieved a remarkable milestone in 2025 by becoming the world's most populous capital with 42 million inhabitants, surpassing Tokyo. Situated on the northwest coast of Java Island, this megacity serves as the political, economic, and cultural epicenter of the world's fourth most populous nation and the largest Muslim-majority country. Jakarta's transformation from a small 16th-century trading port into a sprawling modern metropolis reflects Indonesia's rapid urbanization and economic growth. The city's strategic location along major shipping routes has historically made it a vital hub for international trade, attracting diverse communities from across the Indonesian archipelago and beyond, creating a vibrant multicultural tapestry.

As a global city, Jakarta showcases dramatic contrasts between traditional Indonesian heritage and contemporary urban development. The cityscape is dominated by gleaming skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and modern infrastructure, yet traditional markets, street vendors, and historic neighborhoods remain integral to daily life. The iconic National Monument (Monas) stands as a symbol of Indonesian independence, while Kota Tua (Old Town) preserves Dutch colonial architecture from the city's past as Batavia. From the bustling Chinatown district of Glodok to the coastal recreation complex of Ancol Dreamland, and the pristine Thousand Islands just offshore, Jakarta offers endless urban adventures. Despite challenges including traffic congestion and flooding, the city continues to evolve with ambitious infrastructure projects, positioning itself as a leading Southeast Asian metropolis and gateway to the Indonesian archipelago.