Frugal Living Becomes a Permanent Lifestyle for the Young Generation, Says Anthropologist

The trend of frugal living or economical lifestyle is no longer merely a fleeting social media phenomenon. Indonesian anthropologist Prof. Dr. Semiarto Aji Purwanto believes this pattern of living has the potential to endure in the long term. This is driven by increasing financial awareness and a shift towards more selective consumption patterns among the young generation.

Although the aesthetic trends of frugal living, such as minimalist dressing styles, may change quickly with the times, Semiarto emphasises that the essence of this thrifty behaviour has strong roots in the current economic conditions.

According to Semiarto, one of the main factors perpetuating this efficiency practice is the gig economy work model that now dominates the young labour market. Income that is not always stable requires individuals to be wiser in managing cash flow.

“We live in a gig-based economic context. Sometimes you have plenty of money, but other times you’re broke,” said Semiarto when contacted on Friday (10/5).

This structural condition forces urban communities to remain adaptive to urban economic pressures through efficiency principles.

The current young generation tends to prioritise experiences and well-being over permanent asset ownership. Flexibility becomes the key to meeting lifestyle needs without being burdened by long-term asset maintenance costs.

Prof. Semiarto Aji Purwanto identifies a comparison of shifting consumption patterns:

Semiarto distinguishes between frugal living as a visual trend and as a life principle. He predicts that the simple and minimalist visual appearance may soon change when new aesthetic trends emerge.

“What might change quickly is frugal living as an aesthetic trend,” he said. However, he believes that rational consumption practices will remain high. Awareness of budgeting is no longer just for show, but a rational survival strategy in a world that changes very quickly.