The term skena (derived from "scene") has evolved into a massive youth subculture trend. It refers to urban, indie-music-loving youths who frequent underground gigs and local coffee shops. Their aesthetic typically includes oversized vintage band t-shirts, Doc Martens, cargo pants, vinyl records, and a highly opinionated taste in alternative music.
Some popular trends among Indonesian youth include:
3. Entertainment: The Hallyu Wave and Local Indie Resurgence
The thoughtful, hyper-selective nature of Indonesian youth extends into the civic and political realm. Their engagement is not limited to the ballot box; it's expressed through powerful, digital-first movements and a clear set of demands for their leaders. The term skena (derived from "scene") has evolved
The rise of coffee culture has also become a notable trend, with many cafes and coffee shops popping up in major cities like Jakarta and Bandung. Indonesian youth are also fond of trying new and unique desserts, such as traditional Indonesian sweets and modern creations like bubble tea and ice cream.
As Indonesia's youth population continues to grow and evolve, we can expect to see new trends, innovations, and cultural shifts emerge. Some potential areas of growth include:
Faith remains a central part of life for many, often blending with modern lifestyles (e.g., socialising in internet cafés during Ramadan) . 2. Digital Lifestyle & Media Trends Some popular trends among Indonesian youth include: 3
X remains the default public square for real-time political discourse, social activism, and meme culture. Fashion: Skena, Thrifting, and Modern Heritage
Unlike previous generations, today’s Indonesian youth are highly vocal about social issues, mental wellness, and breaking traditional taboos.
South Korean pop culture (K-Pop, K-Dramas, and K-Beauty) heavily influences youth lifestyles, aesthetics, and purchasing habits. The rise of coffee culture has also become
Youth flock to "viral" culinary items, from extremely spicy snacks ( Ayam Geprek , Baso Aci ) to sweet, aesthetic desserts like croffles and artisanal matcha. Social Values and Economic Outlook
While comfort remains a priority for nearly 80% of Gen Z, 2026 has seen a sharp turn away from minimalism.