The pressure surrounding the SNBT (national university entrance exam) is so intense that it has created a public health crisis. "Cram schools" operate 24/7. Many youth feel that if they don't get into a top 5 university (UI, ITB, Gadjah Mada, Airlangga, Brawijaya), their life is over.
Lazy stereotypes paint Indonesian youth as lazy, but the reality is the opposite. They are over-educated and under-employed, leading to a frantic hustle culture. Lazy stereotypes paint Indonesian youth as lazy, but
A surprising trend is the rise of the "hot preacher." Young, handsome ustadz (Islamic teachers) with curated Instagram grids. They mix Quran recitations with fitness advice. They represent a "middle way" for religious youth who want to be pious without wearing a turban 24/7. The soundscape is divided between global pop and
The soundscape is divided between global pop and exploding local genres. their life is over.
TikTok has turned thrifting (second) into a competitive sport. The hashtag #thriftinghaul has billions of views. Why? The economy. But also, the desire for "unique" identity. Youth dig through bins for vintage 90s Nike windbreakers or old Batik shirts to upcycle.
The Indonesian music industry has undergone a violent rupture, moving from major labels to bedroom producers on YouTube.