Indonesians weigh peril and promise of Jakarta – the world’s most populous city
South China Morning Post
by Aisyah LlewellynFebruary 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, has surpassed Tokyo to become the world’s most populous city, with over 42 million people living in its metropolitan area. This distinction, however, highlights the struggles faced by its residents, who endure extreme heat, frequent floods, severe traffic congestion, and a challenging job market. For many, Jakarta represents both opportunity and hardship—a place where ambition can thrive but at a significant cost to daily life. Fitri Sartika Rama, a 22-year-old midwifery lecturer, describes Jakarta as a “young person’s city” that rewards hard work and career focus but is not ideal for long-term living due to its harsh conditions.
The challenges faced by Jakarta are deeply rooted in its rapid growth and urban planning struggles. As the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta has absorbed millions of people seeking economic opportunities, leading to overcrowding and infrastructure strain. The city’s traffic congestion is legendary, with residents spending hours commuting daily. Additionally, Jakarta faces environmental issues, including regular monsoon floods that inundate low-lying areas and contribute to its reputation as one of the world’s most polluted cities. Despite these difficulties, Jakarta’s status as a global economic hub attracts talent and businesses, making it a pivotal city in Southeast Asia.
The story of Jakarta underscores the complexities of urbanization and the delicate balance between opportunity and hardship that many megacities face. For readers interested in global trends, Jakarta’s rise to prominence offers insights into the challenges of managing massive populations and maintaining quality of life. As more cities around the world grapple with similar issues, Jakarta serves as a case study for understanding how urban centers can navigate growth while addressing pressing social and environmental concerns. Fitri Sartika Rama’s perspective highlights the human experience of living in such a city—where ambition and opportunity coexist with daily struggles, making Jakarta a microcosm of the broader challenges faced by rapidly growing urban areas worldwide.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/15/2026