In the megacities of developing Southeast Asia, the important role of the informal sector in supporting economic development is often under-recognised. Cities seeking to address the economic risks and financial costs of natural hazards have to improve the resilience of the informal sector many of whom are from the low-income groups.
In the wake of the Jakarta floods in 2013, Sofiah Jamil presents her thoughts on not only the plight and resillience of the urban poor during disasters, but also why governments should pay more attention to them.
To read the article (as part of the RSIS Commentaries series) click here.