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Single in Indonesia: Stigma and emancipation

12:34

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Luisa von Richthofen | Fika Ramadhani
May 31, 2025

Whether single, looking for a partner or divorced – what happens when young Indonesians decide to look for love their way?

In Indonesia, marriage is still the social norm. Those who don’t conform, stand out and must often field many uncomfortable questions. Treading the fine line between familial pressure, religious duty and growing self-confidence, Indonesian singles are now seeking love in new ways. Whether divorced, separated or simply without a partner: what does it feel like to push back against society’s expectations? And in this largely traditional country, how is it possible not just to find love, but also self-fulfilment?

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DW’s on-the-ground reporters are always close to the action, be it covering international events or zooming in on some of the quirks of daily life. Camera always in hand, they report on the changes they see taking place in Germany, Europe and around the world.

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