Balikpapan, Indonesia: A Detailed Overview

Location and Geography

Balikpapan is a coastal city located on the eastern coast of Borneo Island, Indonesia. It is the capital of East Kalimantan province and the third-largest city in Kalimantan, after Banjarmasin and Samarinda.

The city is situated at the mouth of the Mahakam River, which is the longest river in East Kalimantan and one of the longest in Indonesia.

Balikpapan is known for its oil and gas industry, which is the main economic driver of the city.

History

The history of Balikpapan can be traced back to the 19th century when it was a small fishing village.

In 1897, the Dutch East India Company established a coal mining operation in Balikpapan, which led to the growth of the city.

During World War II, Balikpapan was occupied by the Japanese from 1942 to 1945.

After Indonesia's independence in 1945, Balikpapan became a major oil and gas production center.

Demographics

As of 2020, Balikpapan has a population of approximately 700,000 people.

The majority of the population is of Indonesian descent, with significant minorities of Chinese, Javanese, and Bugis people.

The city is also home to a large expatriate community, mainly from Japan, South Korea, and the United States.

Economy

Balikpapan's economy is dominated by the oil and gas industry.

The city is home to several oil refineries and gas processing plants.

In addition to oil and gas, Balikpapan has a growing tourism industry.

Tourism

Balikpapan is a popular tourist destination, with a variety of attractions to offer visitors.

The city is home to several beautiful beaches, including Lamaru Beach and Manggar Beach.

Other popular tourist destinations include the Balikpapan Botanical Garden, the Balikpapan Zoo, and the Mahakam River Delta National Park.

Conclusion

Balikpapan is a vibrant and growing city with a rich history and a diverse population.

The city's economy is dominated by the oil and gas industry, but it also has a growing tourism sector.

Balikpapan is a great place to visit for both business and leisure.

Suhu Balikpapan