Pemuda Sinarmas, a Jakarta-based DJ with a profound appreciation for analog sound, is proving that the warmth and unique character of cassette tapes are not relics of the past, but a vibrant and evolving force in Indonesia’s music scene. A glimpse into his personal life reveals a kindred spirit with vintage aesthetics, evidenced by his cherished ’82 Toyota Corona TT and Honda GL 100. He is increasingly recognized as a pioneering figure within Indonesia’s burgeoning cassette DJ culture.

While the global resurgence of cassette culture has been championed by international acts such as Mr. Tape from Latvia and Awesome Tapes from Africa in the USA, the concept initially faced considerable skepticism within Indonesia. Despite encountering numerous rejections and a prevailing doubt surrounding the format’s viability in a modern context, Pemuda Sinarmas’ unwavering passion for the distinct sonic qualities of analog tapes has been the driving force behind a now-thriving movement. His dedication has not only cultivated a vibrant community of analog enthusiasts across the nation but has also established cassette DJing as a compelling and respected art form.

For the inaugural installment of our new “Homegrown” series, Kennedy Ashinze of Globetrotter Lab delves into the inspiring journey of Pemuda Sinarmas. This in-depth exploration uncovers how his resolute commitment overcame initial hurdles, transforming skepticism into a flourishing nationwide community dedicated to the rich textures and tangible experience of cassette culture.

⁣On Saturday, June 27th, Globetrotter Lab hosted a virtual conversation on the global state of black affairs and assembled some brilliant minds to share their perspectives on current happenings regarding the Black Lives Matter protests, its history, cultural context, and why it’s important for Asians, especially Indonesians, to engage.⁣⁣⁣⠀

Despite Jakarta’s proximity to the center of the Black Lives Matter movement that continues to reverberate around the world, Indonesians also resonate with the issue of colorism. Cities across the world continue to stand together in solidarity against global systematic racism.

⁣Hosted by⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀
Kennedy Ashinze⁣⁣⁣
Founder – Globetrotter Lab ⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀ ⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀

Moderated by ⠀⠀
Arief Aziz⁣⁣⁣⠀
Country Director – Change.org Indonesia ⠀⠀
Cofounder – TedxJakarta ⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀ ⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀⁣⁣⁣⠀

With guest panelists
Barbara Allen⁣⁣⁣
Emmy-award winning filmmaker / Producer⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀ ⁣⁣

Hadi Ismanto⁣⁣⁣
Founder Manual Jakarta⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀ ⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀

Eric Williams
Entrepreneur / Community Leader⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀
The Silver Room – Chicago ⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀ ⁣⁣⁣

Curtis Johnson⁣⁣⁣⠀⠀
Fmr Senior Manager ATAMERICA ⁣⁣⁣⠀

Michael Jakarimilena @michaeljakarimilena
Musician