Jakarta, Indonesia

The capital of Indonesia, Jakarta—encompassing an area of 637.44 square kilometers (246 mi2) area and with a population of more than 10 million—is situated on the northern coast of West Java. The city’s strategic location makes it the most important harbor of the country and a gateway to the rest of Indonesia, with excellent accessibility to distant tourist destinations. Historically, the city has been under ruling dynasties professing different religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam. It has been known, variously, as Pasar Ikan (Fish Market), Sunda Kelapa (old harbor), and Jayakarta (master of victory) until the advent of Dutch colonial rule.

Dutch colonialism began in Asia after the establishment of Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie (VOC, Dutch East India Company) in March 1602. The headquarters of the ...