Theorizing spatial dynamics of metropolitan regions: A preliminary study in Java and Madura Islands, Indonesia

This study is aimed at exploring the spatial dynamics of metropolitan regions in Java and Madura Islands, which are commonly known as the most developed areas in Indonesia. The analyses have used GIS-based and tabular data methods applying spreadsheet operations detailed at sub-district (kecamatan) level. An urban sub-district is defined as that with a built-up ratio of more than 22.5% and a population density of more than 1250 people/km2. Delineation of the built-up areas has used an unsupervised classification of 741-bands of Landsat TM7 satellite imageries for the years of 1990 and 2011. The potential sprawl is based on the comparison between the rate of population growth and that of built-up areas. The results show that generally, built-up areas significantly grow on the fringe zones of Java big cities. In metropolitan regions, an indication of non-compact growth occurs, albeit agricultural activities are still dominant there. Sprawl is found to be more in rural and outer than suburban and inner peripheral areas. In this regard, local governments should pay more attention to this issue because it can endanger the food security and environmental sustainability.