In its prime during the era of Dutch colonization, Kota Tua (Old Town) was crowned “The Queen of the East”. Dutch colonization made the area into a thriving business and financial district, where banks such as the Netherlansche Handel Maastchipl and Bank Indonesia were founded. Now some of the buildings there sit in neglect. Its regal buildings have succumbed to ruin and to growing grime.
It is clear that there has been some form of disregard in the area. However, things seem to be looking up. Jakarta Deputy Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama has proposed that the Old Town’s original flair, elegance and beauty be restored. About Rp 12 billion (US$1.25 million) has been invested into the project. “We have to shape Kota Tua as a sophisticated and expensive place.
A five-star hotel will not be exclusive if it sells a cup of coffee for Rp 500. The same metaphor holds true for Kota Tua,” he said, quoted by kompas.com Old Town is certainly an opportunity that has not been exploited to its fullest yet. It is a hidden gem that was once the diamond of Batavia. Passing years have diminished the attractive glow that the area once had. Yet, not all hope is lost.
Investment is on the way, and, with more funding, Kota Tua can surely lead a comeback for Indonesian tourism. It is a good idea to build a more exclusive environment for Kota Tua, making it open to the people while still maintaining its classy stature. Hopefully with its reemergence, more attention and interest will begin to develop and could be utilized to its fullest in tourism.
Raafi Seiff
Jakarta
source : the jakarta post
Raafi Seiff
Jakarta
source : the jakarta post
0 comments:
Post a Comment