In the context of globalization and rapid societal changes, preserving sacred landscapes is vital for cultural identity and resilience. This study investigates the concept of liminality within the cultural landscape of Neira Island, emphasizing the significance of the Buka Kampung ritual and keramat (sacred objects) as integral components of Neira landscape identity. Through qualitative analysis and case studies, the study explores how these rituals serve as liminal practices that mediate between continuity and transformation. The findings highlight that the act of making offerings at keramat during the Buka Kampung ritual fosters social cohesion and reinforces collective identity. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the interplay between sacredness, rituals, and identity, demonstrating how these elements shape place attachment, collective memory, and the lived experiences of local communities. It highlights the importance of sacred landscapes in fostering community resilience and cultural continuity, offering insights into the role of ritual practices in heritage preservation.

Background: This study uses remote sensing and machine learning techniques to investigate the spatial-temporal changes in land use and land cover (LULC) within the Lake Toba tourism area over the past 35 years. Increasing tourism activities have significantly altered the region's landscape, particularly leading to a reduction in forest cover and an expansion of built-up areas. Method: By applying the Random Forest algorithm to satellite imagery data from Landsat 5, 8, and 9, and integrating Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, we analyzed and accurately predicted these changes. Additionally, indices such as NDVI and SAVI were used to monitor ecosystem health in detail, particularly for tracking the growth of invasive species like water hyacinths. Findings: LULC analysis of the Lake Toba tourism area reveals significant changes, including an increase in built-up areas, a decrease in vegetation, and the potential growth of water hyacinths. Surface temperature analysis indicates higher temperatures in built-up areas and cooler temperatures in natural vegetation. Using NDVI, SAVI, and MDWI indices also helped in monitoring water hyacinth growth, supporting improved ecosystem management for sustainability. Conclusion: This study highlights the environmental impacts of tourism and emphasizes the need for sustainable land management practices to balance development with ecological preservation. Novelty/Originality of this Research: This research demonstrates the effectiveness of combining machine learning with spatial technologies to support informed decision-making in land use planning.

Background: The development of the Indonesian Capital City (IKN) represents a transformative initiative aimed at relocating the capital from Jakarta to East Kalimantan to mitigate environmental degradation and promote equitable regional growth. This study investigates the ecological and social implications of IKN development by reviewing relevant literature and emphasizing the role of local communities and pentahelix collaboration in fostering sustainable outcomes. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using PRISMA and SALSA methodologies to screen 215 articles, of which 15 met the inclusion criteria for detailed analysis. Findings: The review revealed significant challenges—including ecological disruption, social inequality, and the marginalization of indigenous rights—while identifying pentahelix collaboration as a critical mechanism for integrating efforts from government, academia, the private sector, media, and community stakeholders. Conclusion: The study concludes that enhancing pentahelix collaboration and empowering local communities are essential for mitigating adverse impacts and achieving sustainable, inclusive development in the IKN context. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research introduces a novel framework that links political ecology with social justice and ecological sustainability, offering innovative insights for policy interventions that prioritize long-term equity and environmental stewardship.

The development of Madiun from 1900 to the 2000s was shaped by political, economic and infrastructure changes that influenced its urban structure. This research examines the city's transformation from the colonial (1990-1945) to the reform era (1998-now), focusing on the relationship between accessibility and the growth of new economic centres. Although previous studies have explored its development, they lack insights into this specific connection. Using a spatial and diachronic approach, the study analyses road networks, economic centres and urban structures using historical maps, together with journals, field surveys and satellite imagery. The data were processed in several stages: (1) georeferencing and digitising of the historical maps to align with contemporary spatial data; (2) mapping of road networks and economic centres using GIS-based network analysis; (3) land use classification and detection of changes from satellite imagery; and (4) validation of the results through field surveys at key locations. These steps, undertaken with the use of ArcGIS Pro, produced diachronic maps detailing urban changes and the spatial relationship between accessibility and economic growth. The findings reveal that accessibility, particularly through transportation networks, has been a key driver of new economic centres. Areas with high accessibility tend to host diverse and intensive economic activities. These centres have a significant influence on Madiun’s urban structure, with agricultural land decreasing from 47.01% in 1984 to 34.57% in 2024, while built-up areas, including residential zones, expanded from 52.99% to 65.43%. The expansion of residential areas, which reached 57.5% during the reform era, indicates a major shift in land use, driven by accessibility and economic growth. The centres also have a strong influence on Madiun's urban structure, with a transition from agriculture to residential, commercial and industrial functions. The research highlights the role of transportation infrastructure in shaping economic development and urban adaptation. It contributes valuable insights into the interplay between accessibility and economic centres, offering a reference for future urban planning to help foster sustainable growth in cities such as Madiun.