Balikpapan is a city on the Borneo island of Indonesia. It is the second largest city in the province of East Kalimantan. Being the leading oil refinery town in Kalimantan province, which was established since late last century, and one of the most important in Indonesia, the city of Balikpapan has attracted people from all over the world and all over Indonesia seeking their fortune in this town of opportunity.

Known as "mining city", Balikpapan has plenty of natural resources. The city is generally hilly with only small areas of flatland, particularly along the coast and surrounding the hilly areas. The Pertamina Oil complex dominates the city next to the deep-water harbour. Modern housing developments cover the hills at the back of the bay. The city has an international airport, several harbours, and a port dedicated to the petroleum industry.

It is a safe, quiet and clean city with a mix of Indonesians and a large number of expatriates. Expatriates work mainly in the oil refinery and associated service companies, and stayed in the oil companies’ housing compounds. The city has a big shopping mall and a new giant stadium called Dome.

Balikpapan is one of the fastest developing cities in Indonesia because it is oil-rich. The city skyline is in the making as many other cities in Indonesia. In the next 3 to 5 years, the entire high rise project will be completed and Balikpapan’s skyline will be a marvel particularly in the Central Business District. sdgss