Dinamika Kependudukan Dan Perubahan Sosial Ekonomi Masyarakat Di Desa Batu Merah, Kota Ambon

Abstract

Population dynamics are one of the key factors influencing the social, economic, and spatial changes of a region. Batu Merah Village, located in Sirimau District, is one of the strategic areas in Ambon City, characterized by a high population concentration and intensive socio-economic activities. This study aims to analyze population dynamics and socio-economic changes in the Batu Merah community from a human geography perspective, as well as to explain their relationship with settlement development, basic service needs, economic activities, and environmental vulnerability. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach supported by secondary quantitative data. Data were obtained from government statistical publications, official documents, and relevant previous studies. The analysis was conducted through spatial, demographic, socio-economic, and human–environment interaction approaches. The findings indicate that the high population concentration in Batu Merah has created increasingly complex demands for space and public services. These dynamics are associated with settlement expansion, increasing demand for clean water and infrastructure, the growth of trade and service activities, and greater community exposure to environmental problems, particularly flooding. From the perspective of demographic metabolism, population change concerns not only population size but also shifts in the composition and characteristics of society, which have implications for socio-economic transformation. The findings suggest that the development of Batu Merah requires an integrated approach that combines population management, strengthening of the local economy, improvement of basic services, spatial planning, environmental management, and disaster mitigation.