This collection of essays represents a major contribution in the understanding of the contemporary urbanization process in the diverse region of Southeast Asia. It is significant because its shifts the focus from the economic role of urban centers to a concern with the "urban condition" recognizing the human challenges of the of urban life which is now a reality for the majority of Southeast Asians. Its interdisciplinary approach encompasses themes such as patterns and the production of urban space, processes of the urban transition (including migration), development discontents, environmental governance and alternative urban development strategies. This collection frames a new debate about urbanization that is rewriting of the narrative of Southeast Asian urbanization.

Terry McGee, Professor Emeritus, University of British Columbia, Canada

Rita Padawangi is a Senior Lecturer at the Singapore University of Social Sciences. Her research interests and projects cover the sociology of architecture, participatory urban development and social movements, with particular emphasis in Southeast Asia. She is also a coordinator of the Southeast Asia Neighborhoods Network, an initiative that involves urban studies scholars on Southeast Asia from various disciplines to combine field research, teaching and civic engagement on cities and their neighborhoods in the region.