Multi-Sector Advancements Make Jakarta ASEAN’s Second Safest City

Jakarta is ranked the second safest city in Southeast Asia in 2026 according to the Global Residence Index report, recording a safety score of 0.72. Trailing only behind Singapore, which scored approximately 0.90, Jakarta has joined the ranks of the world's safest cities, outperforming other major regional hubs such as Bangkok (±0.65), Kuala Lumpur (±0.57), and Manila (±0.41).

One vital indicator was the rise in public mobility

The Global Residence Index assessment encompasses various aspects, ranging from crime rates, accidents, and social stability to disaster risks and the quality of social structures.

Jakarta Urban Observer, Zulfikar Marikar stated that this increase continues a trend since 2025, when Jakarta was still positioned in ASEAN’s middle tier. According to him, the regional government's policy direction has contributed to this improvement.

Jakarta Ranked Second Safest City in ASEAN

He stated that Governor Pramono Anung and Vice Governor Rano Karno are credited with driving the strengthening of the city's security system through the integration of public transportation, service digitalization, and the development of inclusive public spaces.

“The progress in security metrics during that time laid the groundwork for the 2026 leap in rankings. One vital indicator was the rise in public mobility. Transjakarta saw 413 million passengers in 2025—an increase from around 371 million the year before—averaging 1.4 million trips per day,” he added, Tuesday (4/14).

He stated that the high volume of public transport users is a crucial factor in enhancing urban safety. In his view, the shift in mobility from private vehicles to mass transit not only reduces traffic congestion but also minimizes the potential for road conflicts and accidents.

“Transjakarta’s dedicated corridor system and integrated bus stops create more controlled public spaces. The high level of activity at these stops and corridors fosters natural social surveillance, which effectively deters criminal opportunities,” he remarked.

In addition, public landmarks like Bundaran HI regularly host diverse religious and cultural observances—including Christmas, Lunar New Year, Nyepi, Ramadan, and Eid al-Fitr—in an open environment. This demonstrates that social dimensions are being prioritized to bolster the city's safety.

“This reinforced social bond is also visible through cultural festivities such as Lebaran Betawi and communal halal bihalal events at Lapangan Banteng. Such activities establish inclusive social environments that enhance the community's sense of safety,” he noted.

Conversely, flood management is a vital component of city safety ratings. A decrease of over 30 percent in the extent of flooding across various vulnerable zones highlights Jakarta's enhanced ability to handle non-criminal threats.

“Urban security encompasses more than just crime; it includes the capacity to manage environmental hazards like floods. This comprehensive approach is what has boosted Jakarta's overall safety evaluation,” he continued.

Zulfikar furthered that the Jakarta government is constantly strengthening public service delivery via digitalization and quicker responses to community complaints. This strategy is deemed capable of fostering a more cohesive and reactive city framework, which secures the city against crime as well as environmental and infrastructural risks.

“The improved safety rankings experienced by residents must go hand-in-hand with better public services to reach the objective of Jakarta as a Global City,” he concluded.