Jakarta as the gateway to Indonesia has long been known throughout centuries. The city was first established in the 14th century as a trade port city and widely known by traders and travelers of the time as one of Asia’s busiest.

Over time the city underwent several changes including its name. During the Sultanate of Banten empire the city was called Jayakarta (meaning “ Great Victory”). Under the rule of the Dutch the city was rebuilt and renamed Batavia. At that time it also became famous as a center for commercial and cultural activities and known as “The Jewel of Asia”. With independence in 1945 the city became Jakarta.

Today traces of this early glory can still be found throughout the city in the form of historical buildings and structures now being used for commercial purposes as a means of preservation and restoration by the government.

The Special Capital territory of Jakarta (DKI) is the center for government, political, economic and cultural life. Covering an area of 660 square miles the city is divided into five municipalities plus the famed Thousand Islands located just off its coast and supported by an excellent infrastructure system which includes a comprehensive road and rail network, major international seaport, electricity and clean water supply. The Jakarta International Soekarno-Hatta Airport is located on the outskirts of the city and functions as the primary hub for both domestic and international travel.

Jakarta a city of stunning contrasts, is home to over 12 million people who live and work in this modern metropolis of skyscraper office towers, well-equipped business parks, highrise apartments, modern hotels of international standard, mega shopping malls combining great shopping with good entertainment, fine dining ,and exotic food. You will experience big city excitement and bustle that lasts into the wee hours of the morning as well as quality nightlife which will surprise you.

Jakarta is also a leading business destination for international companies and tourists. Itattracted more than US$ 2 billion investments in 2004 and boasts a GDP equivalent to 14% of the total for Indonesia. In 2005 its economy is projected to grow by 6.13% bolstered by its growing importance as the hub for domestic inter-island trading and international trade.

Under an integrated Macro-Transportation (PTM) Masterplan the four major transportation systems comprising bus,LRT-light Rail (Monorail), MRT (subway) and ASDP (canal transportation)will be combined and integrated starting 2007.

Not surprisingly then that Jakarta was named to the 2005 Habitat Scroll of Honor Award by the UN’s Human Settlements Program ( UN-HABITAT ) for the city’s transformation into a safer, better-serviced and greener place; upgrade of the city’s flood canal system, improvements to parks and reconstruction of major public facilities.