Malls offer everything for everyone

Modernization has changed people's lifestyles in large cities all over the world, including Jakarta. When in the past people would spend their free time at parks or public places, nowadays people flock to the malls scattered around the city.

Mallgoers have different reasons for visiting them. Mothers go shopping, fathers view an exhibition of the latest cell phones or cars while kids want to pass the time in the playing arena. Teenagers also have their own favorite hangout places, such as cafes, movie theaters or even the ice skating rink.

However, the existence of many malls in Jakarta is apparently still not enough for the city's 10 million residents. Another six malls are under construction to fulfill the demand for these places of recreation.

Despite criticism that more malls will encourage people to be consumption-oriented, malls cannot be separated from Jakartans' lifestyle.