Jakarta Becomes the World’s Most Populous City: Muslims at the Heart of Asia’s Megacity

Jakarta Becomes the World’s Most Populous City: Muslims at the Heart of Asia’s Megacity
——————————-
Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, with a population of around 42 million and a Muslim majority, has become the world’s most populous megacity.

According to Shia Waves Persian, United Nations reports indicate that more than half of the world’s megacities are located in Asia, and rapid urbanization is creating both opportunities and challenges for Muslims and urban communities.

Jakarta now surpasses other major cities, with Dhaka, Bangladesh (approximately 40 million), and Tokyo, Japan (around 33 million), ranking second and third in global population size, according to UN data and international media such as Agence France-Presse.

Since 1975, the number of megacities has grown from 8 to 33, with more than half situated in Asia. This trend highlights the significant role Muslims—particularly in South and Southeast Asia—play in shaping the world’s largest urban centers.

Jakarta faces high population density, heavy traffic, and pressure on infrastructure, posing major challenges for urban management and social life for Muslims.

At the same time, rapid urbanization has created economic and social opportunities for the city’s Muslim community, enabling more active participation in business, education, and municipal politics.

However, the city’s growth also demands the development of transportation, healthcare, education, and sustainable environmental infrastructure to improve living conditions for Muslims and other residents alike.

Demographers and international media warn that unchecked population growth and megacity expansion can lead to housing shortages, economic inequality, and stress on urban services.

Experts note that Jakarta represents both the opportunities and challenges facing Muslims in the world’s largest cities, offering valuable lessons for managing future megacities with active Muslim participation.