Jakarta joining the ranks of the New Asia

By Danielle Bray

JAKARTA (JP): Green hair, men with earrings, baggy pants and women in platforms are the among the growing trends that are captivating the youth of Jakarta.

The vast growth of individuality that has infiltrated this society in recent years has made a noticeable impression. Mass communication, Internet access and a democratic dream has weaved its way into Indonesia, creating a pop culture phenomenon for the youth of the nation.

The 20-somethings of the new Asia have modified the traditional values that were created and enforced by their predecessors. The new Asian youth have traveled, explored and often studied abroad. Their ideals are a mesh of traditional values and liberal influence.

Mien Uno, co-owner of personality development agency John Robert Powers, explained: "There is a western influence here among our youth, however when sent abroad, the majority are eager to come back to Indonesia to implement their knowledge and benefit their own country.

"It is only a small percentage that use the western knowledge and influence in a negative way."

Ponti, who studied in Canada for four years, said: "I see the changes in Jakarta as a necessary means of growth. I believe it is the youth breaking away from their parents and their parents' traditions. I believe the western influence will help Indonesia with its long-term goals of establishing a democracy."

The West not only influences the wealthy and elite of the country, but also those not born of privilege. The media plays a major role in the impact of how the West is viewed. Robin, a bartender at a local hotel, explained his desire to move to the United States because "America is the land of opportunity, I want to work in Vegas". He has never traveled to the U.S. and only knows about its existence from its portrayal on TV and the big screen. "I want to see it, to feel it ... America represents freedom to me."

The West captivates the youth of Indonesia, especially those that are interested in breaking the mold of oppression that has firmly surrounded their existence.

Rio, a 23-year-old fan of body piercing, said: "I saw the American film Strangeland, and the lead character had many body piercings, I thought it was cool. I surf the Internet for sites on body piercing, and I order the steel hoops from Australia ... the proper ones aren't sold in Indonesia yet."

He added that his parents were fine with his choice of expression, but he was often judged by his more reserved peers. "If people know me, they are fine ... those that don't are intimidated by my look. There aren't that many in Indonesia that have this many piercings."

Oghe, 28, with dyed blonde hair and an eyebrow ring, said: "They call me 'London Boy'. I work in a restaurant that promotes the look of individuality ... I enjoy that because it gives me freedom, and a chance to express myself. I enjoy being different."

Within the past two years, people here have been exposed to the taste of freedom and democracy. Movies, television, music and western pop culture has paved a new road for these individuals, and given them a sense of hope for the future.

The youngsters of this generation blur the line between the two distinct worlds of East and West. Funky colored hair, body piercings and outlandish styles are the trendy looks the new Asia has adopted from its neighbors to the West.

One of Jakarta's top hairstylists, Peter Saerang, said: "Indonesians have always been influenced by European hair styles and color. Shades of blue, green and violet have been a part of the local fashion scene since the 1970s, and its popularity is growing once again, especially among the youth."

The hip-hungry of Jakarta find it is a breeze to be trendy. The latest western styles have been copied from abroad and mass distributed among local retailers at prices suited to the working class. Through the growth of communications, trends between the east and west are only separated by geography.

Mien Uno said: "There is the American/western culture of Michael Jackson and drugs, however, we feel only 25 percent of the Indonesian population chooses to adapt that role ... the majority incorporates the positive aspects of the West into their lives and implements it into their daily routine ... It is part of building a better Indonesia."