Interrogating the First Signs of Gentrification in Postcolonial Kota Tua, Jakarta

Colonial remnants, like buildings, streets and canals, are the main attraction of Kota Tua, the historical inner city of Jakarta. Considering known gentrification theories, the restoration and reuse of historical buildings and revitalization of public spaces in the area indicates gentrification is starting to take place here. This article interrogates these first signs of gentrification in the historical inner-city of Kota Tua, and the extent to which four characteristics of the gentrification process manifest themselves in the area. This paper concludes that although some characteristics of the gentrification process are taking place in Kota Tua, there are also developments that counter this observation, adding to the academic discussion on whether the gentrification process in Kota Tua materializes, and what the future of this postcolonial urban area entails.