TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - University of Indonesia social expert Devie Rahmawati on Monday commented on a recent phenomenon where teenagers residing in Jakarta’s satellite cities spend time socializing in the capital city’s popular downtown areas of Sudirman all the while wearing ‘catchy’ wardrobe. She believes this trend is driven by teenagers influenced by their social media contents of choice.

“During the current digital era, they like it or not become a prisoner and are besieged by digital references on certain lifestyles,” said Devie to Tempo on July 4. 

She argues that the lifestyle reference rampantly spread across social media realms, which are highly regarded by the online community are products of individuals that come from major cities. This creates a metrocentric way of thinking, she added. 

“This aspect is what confirms cities as a reference hub, the main reference on how to behave, regarding products, and ideas that are transmitted to the digital realm,” she explained. “These things are accepted by the young teenagers residing outside of major cities such as Jakarta.”

According to Devie, the desire of young people to capture the moment in the city is what causes many teenagers, especially those in satellite areas such as Citayam and Bojonggede, to compete to reach the city and “hang out.” 

"The ease of access to transportation also makes their dreams of becoming the people they see online are easily realized," said Devie.

ADE RIDWAN YANDWIPUTRA

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