Paradigms in Practice: Urban Planning Theories and Governance Dualism in Batam
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54518/rh.6.5.2026.1736Keywords:
Governance, Institutional Dualism, Mainstream Planning, Planning Paradigm, Spatial Justice, Special Economic ZonesAbstract
Batam was conceived as an ambitious state-led spatial experiment to rival regional industrial centers like Singapore through special economic zone policies, technocratic blueprints, and massive infrastructure investments. However, decades of development have placed the city in an ambiguous position, characterized by persistent socio-spatial inequalities and institutional friction. This study examines how mainstream planning theories operate within an urban environment shaped by institutional dualism between the autonomous municipal government (Pemko Batam) and the central development agency (BP Batam. Employing a qualitative single-case study design, the research analyzes statutory planning documents, including the RPJMD, RTRW, and Special Economic Zone regulations, supported with empirical literature through theory-driven deductive content analysis. The operational dynamics of six prominent planning paradigms (Rational Comprehensive, Incremental, Strategic, Neoliberal, Communicative, and Advocacy Planning) are evaluated across their decision logic, institutional alignment, stakeholder engagement, flexibility, and treatment of marginalized groups. The findings show that rigid, top-down planning approaches are difficult to apply in Batam because planning responsibilities are divided between different authorities. As a result, authorities often make gradual and practical adjustments rather than following one fixed plan. At the same time, strategic and neoliberal planning approaches strongly influence development priorities, particularly those related to investment and global economic activities. This can give less attention to community participation, secure land tenure in informal settlements, and environmental resilience. Communicative and advocacy planning approaches are less visible and are mainly used as responses to specific land conflicts. This paper concludes that no single mainstream paradigm suffices in complex border enclaves, emphasizing the necessity for an integrated planning framework that reconciles market-driven growth with institutional coordination and spatial justice.
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