That was the unspoken rule of Indonesian youth culture in 2024:
— At 3:00 AM in South Jakarta, a 19-year-old university student named Kirana isn’t sleeping. She is simultaneously scrolling through TikTok Shop for a dupe of a Korean skincare serum, arguing with a bot about the ethics of nickel mining for EV batteries, and curating a Spotify playlist of 1990s Indonesian rock songs that have been remixed with hyperpop beats. That was the unspoken rule of Indonesian youth
: Indonesian youth tend to prioritize family, education, and career development. However, there is also a growing emphasis on independence, self-expression, and social responsibility. Many young people are concerned about issues like environmental sustainability, social justice, and mental health. However, there is also a growing emphasis on
: The "cultured" kids who reject mainstream ideals. You’ll find them in indie cafés and underground art spaces, obsessed with local music and authentic self-expression. You’ll find them in indie cafés and underground
: Indonesia has experienced rapid urbanization, with over 50% of the population now living in cities. This has led to changes in lifestyle, with young people increasingly adopting Western-style fashion, music, and entertainment. Urban youth are more likely to be exposed to global trends and cultural influences, which shape their attitudes and behaviors.
Historically, Indonesian parents championed stability: become a civil servant ( PNS ) or a doctor. However, the current generation is challenging this narrative.