There is a phrase you hear constantly in Jakarta: "Cari cuan" (looking for money). The days of the "safe corporate job" being the only dream are over. Indonesian youth are fiercely entrepreneurial.
Indonesia's young Muslims are creating a new genre of "cool" Islam — from hijab streetwear to TikTok ustadz with ASMR voices. There is a phrase you hear constantly in
Thrifting is no longer for the poor; it's a badge of coolness. Indonesian youth hunt for vintage Nike, 90s anime tees, and kemeja batik lawas at places like Pasar Cimol or Pasar Senen. Indonesia's young Muslims are creating a new genre
Unlike the secular slide of Western youth, Indonesian Gen Z is generally religious—but on their own terms. Unlike the secular slide of Western youth, Indonesian
The "Hijrah" Movement: A significant portion of middle-class youth are undergoing a spiritual awakening. "Hijrah" means moving from a less religious state to a more devout one. This has created an industry of "Muslim influencers" who sell skincare while wearing hijab syar'i and reciting Quran verses.
"Red Flag" Psychology: Western pop psychology has invaded the Indonesian lexicon. Words like "toxic," "gaslighting," and "healing" are used constantly. It is common to see a 20-year-old diagnosing their nongkrong group with narcissism.