“We hope to come together out of a shared love for Kota Tua and a common purpose — not based on which institution we represent, but as Indonesians committed to gradually and systematically developing this area, preserving its historical value while turning it into a vibrant creative economy space,” Irene said in a press statement received in Jakarta on Sunday.
In collaboration with Jakarta’s Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda DKI), MRT Jakarta, the Cultural Heritage Expert Team (TACB), and Bank Mandiri as the property owner, Irene emphasized that the revitalization would rely on strong inter-agency cooperation to ensure long-term sustainable development.
The initiative also seeks to align urban renewal efforts with the area’s historical integrity while enhancing its creative economy potential.
It forms part of a wider plan to implement Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), an urban planning approach that integrates land use with public transportation infrastructure.
Jakarta Bappeda Chief Atika Nur Rahmania expressed her agency’s full support for the TOD concept, noting that it aligns with the city’s vision for urban renewal in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy.
“The development of this transit-oriented area aligns with our urban renewal vision for Kota Tua. We’re approaching a major milestone in two years, when Jakarta turns 500. This project is more than just planning - it represents a shared ecosystem fueled by our collective passion for Kota Tua and the creative economy,” Atika said.
Architect and TACB representative Cosmas Gozali highlighted the strategic role of the creative industry in transforming urban spaces. He noted that creative communities have demonstrated an ability to revitalize underutilized areas — such as old warehouses or abandoned buildings — and turn them into centers of economic and social activity.
“The creative industry is dynamic and brings cities to life. We’ve seen this happen in West London, Shanghai, and Brooklyn — areas once plagued by crime are now among the most valuable in New York. The same potential exists in Kota Tua, where empty warehouses could be transformed into vibrant creative hubs,” Cosmas said.
The site visit concluded with a walking tour of several key sites in Kota Tua, beginning at the Mandiri Museum — which will host the 2025 TOD Forum — followed by stops at the Kalibesar Barat Building and the Fatahillah Archives Building.
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Translator: Fitra, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Primayanti
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