Urban spaces in Southeast Asian cities like Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur are experiencing transformative shifts in function and design, reflective of the complex interplay between cultural dynamics, historical contexts, and urban developmental trajectories. This research elucidates the evolving narratives of parks, open spaces, and eateries within these metropolises stemming from ancient archipelago of Nusantara, examining their role in forming a unique urban experience. The study adopts an interdisciplinary methodology, integrating historical analysis, ethnographic observations, and a review of urban planning literature to investigate social spaces’ changing roles and architectural developments in Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur. Data were gathered through archival research, fieldwork, and interviews with urban planners and local stakeholders. The findings highlight a nuanced interaction between traditional practices from previous histories fused with modern western and colonial influences, revealing how these social spaces serve as arenas for cultural expression and community engagement amidst the pressures of urbanisation. This investigation offers a framework for understanding the significance of cultural, historical, and urban factors in shaping the social and physical landscapes of Asian cities. The research contributes to a broader discourse on the role of culture in urban development and its potential as a catalyst for creating resilient and vibrant urban spaces.

Urban Parks, Urban Social, Nusantara, UGS