Silvano Hajid

Growing dissatisfaction with dating apps, including experiences of scams, love bombing, identity requests and deceptive profiles, is driving some Indonesian single women toward curated blind-dating events. Blinddate Indonesia screens participants for compatibility and gender balance, hosting meetings in public venues where participants can speak with multiple potential partners. Participants Nina and Dinda value the safety, openness and selectivity of the format, while acknowledging that romance may develop gradually. Experts from Universitas Gadjah Mada link the trend to changing expectations around marriage, women’s education and economic independence, and a greater demand for equality, emotional maturity and financial stability. They also stress realistic expectations and basic safety precautions, such as meeting in crowded public places and avoiding alcohol. Blinddate Indonesia says ten couples formed through its events have gone on to marry since 2023.

Indonesia's Ministry of Law has proposed limited dual citizenship for diaspora members whose skills are considered strategically necessary, such as nuclear scientists, chemists or elite athletes. Supporters say the policy could help Indonesians working abroad retain their citizenship, reduce visa obstacles and facilitate knowledge and technology transfer. Critics warn it could deepen inequality between natural-born Indonesians and privileged “talent-track” citizens, enable foreign interests to acquire economic assets, and create opportunities for tax evasion, corruption or escape from criminal liability. Experts also identify possible conflicts involving taxation, elections, land ownership, marriage law and immigration. Historical disputes involving ethnic Chinese Indonesians and recent cases involving Orient Patriot Riwu Kore and Arcandra Tahar are cited as evidence that Indonesia's administrative and enforcement systems may not yet be ready for the change. The proposal would require a comprehensive review of related laws and approval from the DPR.