Jakarta now world's largest city with nearly 42 million residents
The UN named Jakarta the world's most populous city with nearly 42 million people, surpassing Tokyo.
Jakarta has been crowned the world's most populous city by the United Nations, with nearly 42 million residents. Dhaka, Bangladesh, ranks second with almost 40 million people.
Tokyo has dropped to third with 33 million, partly due to Japan's declining population. The Indonesian capital celebrated its 499th birthday this week.
Streets closed to traffic between 6am and 11am give residents some open space in the crowded city. This is a weekly ritual.
Jakarta is one of South-East Asia's least visited cities by Western tourists, despite its new status as the global megacity. The city faces chronic challenges with space and infrastructure despite its enormous population.
- 42 million
- Jakarta population
- 40 million
- Dhaka population
- 33 million
- Tokyo population
- 499 years
- Jakarta's age
Why it mattersIt shows global population growth is shifting toward Asia and away from richer nations. This affects global economics and resources.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, though it reflects broader Asian urbanisation trends relevant to Australia's regional trade and diplomacy.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 11 d ago
