Jakarta's Metropolitan Area Ranks Second Globally, Highlighting Southeast Asia's Hidden Scale

Jakarta, Indonesia – The metropolitan area of Jakarta, known locally as Jabodetabekpunjur, is recognized as the second-most populous urban area worldwide, trailing only Tokyo. This fact underscores a broader theme of immense scale and often-unrecognized cultural and economic vibrancy across China and Southeast Asia, as highlighted by a recent social media post.

According to the Indonesian 2020 Census and mid-2024 official estimates, the Jakarta metropolitan area boasts a population of approximately 32.3 million across its 6,822.03 square kilometers. This makes it the most populous region in Indonesia and positions it significantly on the global urban landscape. The original tweet by "OK Then" pointed out, "> 99 % of people don't know Jakarta is the world's second largest metro area," challenging common perceptions of global urban centers.

Beyond Jakarta, the tweet also drew attention to other significant, yet often overlooked, aspects of the region. It stated, "> 99 % of people don't know Thailand has a massive media industry huge in the region." Thailand's media sector is indeed a major player in Southeast Asia, encompassing a diverse range of television, film, music, and digital content that significantly influences regional pop culture and entertainment trends.

The tweet further noted the existence of cities like Lanzhou in China, which possesses a "celebrated local muslim culture," a detail often unknown to many outside the region. Lanzhou, located in Western China, is historically a significant point on the Silk Road and is recognized for its unique blend of Han and Hui (Chinese Muslim) cultures, evident in its cuisine, architecture, and traditions. These examples collectively illustrate the vast and varied landscapes, cultures, and economic powerhouses that remain largely unfamiliar to a global audience.