Introduction: Transformative Futures of Cities: Climate Change and Sustainable Development in Southeast Asia

In a world defined by the dual challenges of climate change and need for sustainable development, cities play a pivotal role in reimagining the future trajectories of our planet and societies. This scholarly volume authored by an international cohort of scholars is dedicated to understanding and addressing the dynamic transformations of cities, with a particular focus on Upper Middle-Income Countries (MICs) in Southeast Asia.

The book underscores the complex interplay between global environmental changes and human choice, highlighting the critical implications for climate adaptation and sustainable development. It delves into the intricate web of multi-level governance, involving national, provincial, and local governments, public and private stakeholders, civil society organizations, and citizens, to navigate the path toward resilient and sustainable urban futures. The spotlight is on Southeast Asia, an epicenter of diverse societies, cultures, and economic development, including Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Structured into four core themes, the book embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the transformative journey of cities:

I. Urbanism and Spatial Dimensions of Climate and Sustainable Development - This section examines the crucial role of cities in confronting climate and development challenges, considering the region's unique contextual factors.
II. Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure and Housing - This section dissects the relationship between infrastructure and housing in shaping climate action and sustainable development, encompassing vital areas like transport, housing, port development, and public-private partnerships.
III. Water, Flooding, Drought: Environmental Challenges and Equity and Gender – This section is focused on environmental issues, addresses water-related challenges, including flooding and drought, and emphasizes considerations of equity and gender.
IV. Governance for Climate Change: Leadership, Stakeholder Engagement, and Community Involvement - The final section of the book delves into the critical aspects of governance, underscoring the roles of leadership, stakeholder engagement, and community participation in fostering sustainability and climate change responses.

Key research questions guide the volume's exploration, aiming to decipher how cities in Southeast Asia can respond effectively to climate change and sustainable development. We seek synergies between climate mitigation/adaptation measures and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), acknowledging the need to confront the potential for growing socio-economic inequality, increased energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions in the region. As the book questions how cities can align with climate measures and the SDGs, it positions governance, stakeholder engagement, and citizen support as cornerstones for successful implementation.

Cities are evolving, responding to the profound impacts of climate change, and seeking innovative pathways to sustainable development. This book offers invaluable insights for policymakers, urban planners, researchers, and all stakeholders committed to shaping a future where cities thrive in harmony with the planet and their inhabitants. It bridges generational and regional knowledge, reflecting the shared responsibility of leaders, scholars, practitioners, and citizens to drive the transformation of cities into resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban environments.