Gangsters, Music, and Aremania: Modernity and The Dynamics of Arek Malang to Defend their Existence 1970–2000

Henk S. Nordholt (2011, 435–438) noted that, since the end of colonial rule, modernity for much of Indonesia’s indigenous middle class has been closely associated with an exciting and dynamic lifestyle. He emphasized that this enthusiasm for modern living often surpasses interest in the national movement. In this context, being modern is linked to having unique opportunities and new skills that enable individuals to enjoy daily pleasures—such as consuming modern goods, embracing the latest technologies, and adopting fashionable ways of life (Gerke 2000; Heryanto 1999b; van Leeuwen 2011 in Heryanto 2015, 28).

Building on this idea, when examining the rise of youth gangs in various villages and the popularity of rock music among young people in Malang, one can see this form of modernity reflected within the structure of middle-class society. These youths embrace global trends through their consumption of modern goods and lifestyles. Notably, the youth’s enthusiasm for rock music in 1970s Malang was heavily influenced by Western (particularly American and British) music—a cultural current that grew stronger under the New Order regime. This stood in contrast to the Old Order period, during which Western influences, including music, were strictly banned by the ruling government.