Dialogues at Fulcrum

Author: ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute

Dialogues at Fulcrum provides an insider's perspective on the ever-evolving landscape of Southeast Asia. We speak to researchers at the ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute (ISEAS), as well as external speakers, on topics related to Southeast Asia and its wider geostrategic and economic environment. Dialogues at Fulcrum is published by ISEAS. Established as an autonomous organisation by the Singapore Government in 1968, ISEAS is a regional research centre dedicated to the study of socio-political, security and economic trends and developments in Southeast Asia.
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‘Gangster’ Politics? Examining Protest, Power, and Poverty in Indonesia
Episode 33
Monday, 20 October, 2025

Fulcrum editor and Coordinator, Indonesia Studies Programme, Julia Lau speaks to Dr Ian Wilson about power, politics, and popular culture, including the phenomenon of 'preman' in today's Indonesia.1:35 – Unpacking the causes of the violent protests in Indonesia in August 20259:00 – Prevalence of Preman ('Gangster') politics in Indonesia today 17:56 – Contrasting contemporary Indonesian politics with New Order politics27:50 – Popular culture ('One Piece') and the evolution of protests and resistance in Indonesia's networked society33:18 – The trajectory of Indonesian democracy38:40 – Implications of inadequate efforts to address urban poverty in Indonesia 46:20 – Ian Wilson’s academic journey and tips for aspiring young scholarsDialogues at Fulcrum is a podcast published by the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute.