The Neighborhood

ID, please: Inside Jakarta’s under-30 spots

Across town, spaces catering specifically to Jakarta’s under-30 crowd have popped up. Our resident Gen Z writer investigates.

Arts

All that is in between: Islamic art bridges tradition and innovation in Jeddah

This year’s Islamic Arts Biennale unites the sacred and the experimental, inviting pilgrims and visitors to reimagine faith through scent, sculpture, sound and storytelling.

Culture and Entertainment

Andi Rianto wants you to listen to his heart

How does a maestro bare his soul? Symphony from the Heart blends orchestral pop and honest lyrics to reflect on love and legacy.

Conversation

Let Arbani Yasiz lead the way

With the ambitious folk-horror pic Pabrik Gula, Arbani Yasiz has earned for himself the status of being Indonesian modern cinema's leading man.

Culture and Entertainment

Qodrat 2 delivers grand horror with a soulful core

Charles Gozali’s supernatural sequel raises the stakes with deeper themes, bigger thrills and a powerful performance from Acha Septriasa.

Culture and Entertainment

What the 2025 Oscars mean for Indonesian cinema

As the Oscars shine upon more international films, Indonesia might want to rethink its strategy to break into the global spotlight.

Culture and Entertainment

The new and unstoppable energy of Nidji

The album Manifestasi Hati marks a new chapter for the legendary pop-rock band and, most likely, its greatest milestone yet.

Conversation

Pulling a Hail Mary: Garuda Pertiwi’s pursuit of glory

For the members of Indonesia’s women’s national soccer team, every kick counts as they fight for recognition and chase their World Cup dreams.

Arts

More than just cuts: How film editors help shape the stories we love

You know your favorite film’s director and its stars. But much of the magic behind the scenes is invisible. Work at the editor’s desk is done so well you don’t even notice it.

Culture and Entertainment

The storytellers: Spotlighting Indonesia’s screenwriters

The spotlight often shines brightest on directors and stars, but the magic of cinema begins long before the cameras roll. Meet three of Indonesia’s top screenwriters, the unsung heroes of filmmaking.

Culture and Entertainment

Food, politics and obsession: Tasting Indonesia’s flavors in 'Rahasia Rasa'

A chef who develops an aversion to spices, a forgotten recipe book and an alternate history: Hanung Bramantyo’s latest film serves up more than just food.

Culture and Entertainment

Behind the loving rhapsody of Mitty Zasia

The indie singer-songwriter's latest album, Nanti Malam Ku Pikir Lagi, is a contemplation on love, life and the ethereal power of music.

Conversation

Love for share: Decoding ethical non-monogamy with Andrea Gunawan

Often misunderstood and rarely judged in good faith, ethical non-monogamy challenges traditional ideas of love and commitment. But when done with honesty, consent and clear boundaries, can it actually work?

Conversation

The maze of Ayu Utami

Always fearless and unapologetic, Ayu Utami talks about her new novel, why she tackles taboo topics and what her novels mean.

Conversation

Resistance on a plate: Michelle Santoso serves up culinary advocacy

Through social media reels and culinary fundraisers, Michelle Santoso brings resistance to the table, one Palestinian dish at a time.