Spatial Planning Challenges in Eastern Indonesia: Integrating Traditional Land Management Systems in Papua's Urban Development

Authors

  • Lazarus Ramandei Cenderawasih University Jayapura
  • Juliani Wairata Cenderawasih University Jayapura

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/ijsd.v5i1.7

Keywords:

Spatial Planning, Traditional Land Management, Papua, Urban Development, Participatory GIS, Customary Land Tenure, RDTR, Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

Eastern Indonesia, particularly Papua Province, faces unprecedented urban development challenges as modernization intersects with deeply rooted traditional land management systems. The region's unique socio-cultural landscape, characterized by indigenous customary land tenure (hak ulayat) covering approximately 96.4% of land area, presents both opportunities and constraints for contemporary spatial planning. This study analyzes the integration challenges between formal spatial planning regulations and traditional land management systems in Papua's urban development, with specific focus on Port Numbay (Jayapura) and surrounding peri-urban areas. Employing mixed-methods approach, this research combines Participatory Geographic Information Systems (PGIS), spatial analysis using Shannon Entropy Index, stakeholder interviews (n=45), and policy document analysis. Primary data collected from three case study areas (Port Numbay, Timika, and Merauke) during 2023-2024 period. Findings reveal significant spatial heterogeneity (Shannon Entropy: 0.33-0.53) in urban expansion patterns, indicating uncoordinated development pressures. Only 22% of identified important community lands (Tempat Penting Masyarakat/TPM) have been successfully integrated into formal spatial planning documents. PGIS mapping documented 234 culturally significant sites across 647,850 hectares in Merauke case study, with 69% successfully integrated as cultural preservation zones. Successful spatial planning in Papua requires paradigm shift toward co-management frameworks integrating Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) principles, PGIS methodologies, and Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) assessment. The study proposes innovative governance model combining statutory planning instruments with customary land management systems through intermediary institutions

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Published

2026-03-19