Quality of life in Samarinda

History and Culture

Samarinda's history dates back to the 17th century when it was established as a settlement by the Bugis people from South Sulawesi. The city's strategic location along the Mahakam River made it an important trading post, facilitating the exchange of goods between the interior of Borneo and the coastal regions.

Throughout its history, Samarinda has been influenced by various cultures, including the indigenous Dayak tribes, Malay, and Chinese communities. This cultural amalgamation is evident in the city's architecture, traditional crafts, and local customs.

The city is home to several cultural institutions and landmarks, such as the Samarinda Islamic Center Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia, and the Mulawarman Museum, which showcases the history and heritage of East Kalimantan. Festivals like the Erau Festival celebrate the region's rich traditions and attract visitors from across the country.

Samarinda's cultural scene is vibrant, with a strong emphasis on preserving traditional arts such as dance, music, and weaving. The city's ethnic diversity is celebrated through various cultural events and activities, fostering a sense of community and pride among its residents.

Things to do in Samarinda

Visitors to Samarinda can explore the Mahakam River, which offers scenic boat tours and opportunities to experience the local way of life along its banks. The river is a lifeline for the city, providing transportation and supporting the local economy.

For those interested in nature, the Bukit Bangkirai rainforest is a must-visit, featuring a canopy bridge that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. The area is home to diverse wildlife and provides a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Borneo.

Samarinda's culinary scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity, with local dishes such as nasi kuning and amplang being popular among locals and tourists alike. The city's markets and food stalls offer a taste of traditional Indonesian cuisine, making it a food lover's paradise.

Cultural enthusiasts can visit the Samarinda Islamic Center Mosque and the Mulawarman Museum to learn more about the city's history and heritage. Additionally, the annual Erau Festival is a highlight, showcasing traditional music, dance, and rituals that are integral to the region's cultural identity.

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for Indonesia reflect how livable a city in Indonesia is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

1. Jakarta

Indonesia

Samarinda's Political Climate

Samarinda, the capital city of East Kalimantan, Indonesia, is a vibrant political hub with a unique blend of traditional and modern governance. The city is governed by a mayor-council system, where the mayor is elected directly by the people. This system allows for a more direct representation of the citizens' needs and aspirations. Samarinda's political landscape is characterized by a mix of local and national influences, with political parties such as the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) and Golkar playing significant roles.

Historically, Samarinda has been a center for political activity in the region, often reflecting the broader political trends of Indonesia. The city has seen a shift towards more progressive policies in recent years, focusing on sustainable urban development and environmental conservation, given its proximity to the rainforest and the Mahakam River. These efforts are part of a broader national agenda to promote green policies and reduce carbon emissions.

The political climate in Samarinda is also shaped by its economic activities, particularly in the coal mining and palm oil industries. These sectors have significant political influence, often driving policy decisions related to economic growth and environmental management. Social issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development are also high on the political agenda, with local leaders advocating for improved public services.

Recent political events in Samarinda include increased civic engagement and activism, particularly among the youth, who are pushing for greater transparency and accountability in government. This trend is part of a larger movement across Indonesia, where citizens are becoming more vocal about their rights and the need for democratic reforms.

Political Quick Facts