TRANSFORMATION OF RURAL SETTLEMENTS INTO SMALL CITIES(LESSONS FROM SAUMLAKI AND MERAUKE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF MALIANA, TIMOR-LESTE)

Abstract

The transformation of rural settlements into small cities has become an increasingly important phenomenon in regional development, particularly in developing countries where secondary urban centers play a critical role in connecting rural communities with broader economic and administrative systems. Small cities contribute to balanced territorial development by providing essential services, infrastructure, and economic opportunities to surrounding hinterlands. This study aims to examine the transformation processes of Saumlaki and Merauke in Eastern Indonesia and identify lessons that can support the sustainable development of Maliana, Timor-Leste. A Narrative Literature Review (NLR) approach was employed by synthesizing information from academic journals, government reports, planning documents, and publications from international development organizations. The analysis focused on five dimensions of urban transformation, namely infrastructure development, regional connectivity, economic diversification, public service expansion, and governance functions. The findings indicate that despite differences in geographical settings and economic structures, both Saumlaki and Merauke experienced urban growth through the combined effects of transportation infrastructure improvement, strengthening of administrative functions, expansion of public services, and increasing regional integration. Saumlaki demonstrates the importance of maritime connectivity and government services in supporting urban development within an archipelagic context, whereas Merauke highlights the role of agricultural development and large-scale infrastructure investment in accelerating regional growth. These experiences suggest that Maliana possesses significant potential to strengthen its role as a regional service center through integrated infrastructure planning, economic diversification, enhanced public services, and improved cross-border connectivity. The study concludes that sustainable urban transformation requires coordinated investments in physical infrastructure, institutional capacity, and regional economic development to ensure long-term urban resilience and balanced territorial growth.