Balang Tonjong Lake Development in the Perspective of the Production of Space

Abstract

Balang Tonjong Lake in Makassar City is one of the few remaining urban lakes with vital ecological, social, and economic functions. Ecologically, it serves as a water reservoir, recharge area, and flood regulator. Socio-economically, the surrounding community relies on it for fishing, aquaculture, recreation, and cultural activities. However, the lake faces serious challenges, including sedimentation, uncontrolled vegetation, domestic and agricultural pollution, household waste accumulation, and degraded tourism facilities. These problems make the lake increasingly vulnerable to flooding and ecosystem decline, although it still holds significant potential as an ecotourism site and water catchment area. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design. Informants included lake users (fishers, farmers, residents) and government representatives related to spatial planning and environmental management. Data were gathered through field observation, semi-structured interviews, and literature review. Analysis applied Henri Lefebvre’s theory of the production of space, which divides space into three dimensions: representations of space (conceived space), spatial practices (perceived space), and spaces of representation (lived space). Findings reveal tensions among actors in interpreting the lake. The government tends to treat it as a tourism asset with economic orientation, reflected in large-scale development plans. Local communities rely on it for daily livelihoods, while residents view it as a social space and collective identity. Such divergences risk conflict if management remains technocratic, neglecting ecological sustainability and community involvement. Therefore, this study highlights the need for a participatory management model that balances economic interests, ecological conservation, and social legitimacy. The findings are expected to provide both conceptual and practical guidance for local governments in formulating development strategies for Balang Tonjong Lake.