Do you prefer relaxing at home or going out in the evening? Why?
I personally prefer relaxing at home in the evening because it allows me to unwind after a busy day. The comfort of my own space, whether reading a book or watching a movie, helps me recharge. While going out can be enjoyable for socializing, it often feels tiring afterward. Staying in also lets me pursue hobbies like cooking or listening to music without time constraints. However, I do occasionally go out to meet friends, but balance is key for me.
When you go out for an evening, what do you like to do?
When I go out in the evening, I enjoy meeting friends at cafes or restaurants to catch up over conversations. Exploring new places, like art galleries or live music venues, adds variety to my routine. I also like trying different cuisines, which allows me to experience diverse cultures through food. However, I prefer low-key gatherings to avoid feeling overwhelmed by crowded environments.
How popular is this with other people in your country?
Meeting friends at cafes is quite popular in my country, especially among younger generations and urban residents. Cafes serve as social hubs where people bond over coffee or light meals, and this trend has grown alongside the rise of social media-driven lifestyles. In cities like Jakarta, it’s common to see groups gathering for hours, reflecting a cultural shift toward casual, relaxed socializing. However, older age groups or those in rural areas may prefer traditional settings like family gatherings or local markets. Personally, I think this café culture highlights how modern lifestyles prioritize convenience and communal spaces.
Is there any kind of entertainment you do not like?
I’m not particularly fond of going to nightclubs because the loud music and crowded atmosphere often feel overwhelming. The constant noise makes conversation nearly impossible, and the tight spaces can trigger claustrophobia, leaving me feeling drained rather than entertained. I prefer quieter settings like cafes or parks, where interactions flow naturally without sensory overload. While some enjoy the energy of clubs, I find the artificial lighting and repetitive beats disorienting compared to more relaxed environments.
Describe one of your friends. You should say how you met – how long you have known each other – how you spend time together – and explain why you like this person
One of my closest friends is Tongam Pardomuan Simanjuntak, whom I first met during our university years in Bandung between 2001 and 2006. We bonded instantly over our shared passion for music—both of us were part of the campus band and spent countless hours composing melodies and jamming in the music lab. Since then, our friendship has spanned over two decades, enduring through life changes and geographical distances.
Even after Tongam moved to Bali in 2007 to pursue his music career, we’ve continued collaborating remotely. We often work on recording projects together, sending tracks back and forth via digital platforms, and whenever possible, we reunite in person to finalize albums or perform live. Technology keeps us connected too—weekly video calls allow us to brainstorm ideas, while casual chats on messaging apps ensure our bond stays strong despite the physical separation.
What I admire most about Tongam is his unwavering dedication to artistry. He’s meticulous about every detail in our projects, pushing me to refine my skills, yet remains patient and encouraging. Beyond music, his integrity and sense of humor make him a reliable confidant. Whether we’re debating lyrics or sharing life updates, his perspective is both insightful and grounding. Our friendship thrives on mutual respect and the joy of creating something meaningful together, which has enriched both our personal and professional lives.
What do you think are the most important qualities for friends to have?
I believe trustworthiness and reliability are fundamental because true friendship hinges on honesty and dependability. Empathy is equally crucial—being able to understand and support each other through challenges strengthens bonds. Shared values and mutual respect ensure compatibility, while authenticity allows relationships to thrive without pretense. Additionally, a sense of humor helps navigate life’s ups and downs with positivity. These qualities create a foundation for lasting, meaningful connections.
Which are more important to people, their family, or their friends? Why?
While both family and friends are vital, I believe family is more foundational because they provide unconditional support and a sense of belonging from birth. Familial bonds often come with shared history and responsibilities, creating a lifelong safety net that friends cannot replace. However, friends offer camaraderie and shared interests, which enrich personal growth. Yet, family’s role in shaping identity and offering stability during crises—like illness or financial struggles—makes their importance more profound in most lives.
What do you think causes friendships to break up?
Friendships often dissolve due to miscommunication or unresolved conflicts, as unaddressed issues create resentment over time. Differing life priorities—such as career goals or personal values—can also strain relationships, leading to growing apart. Trust erosion, whether from broken promises or betrayal, is another critical factor that undermines bonds. Additionally, geographical distance may reduce interaction frequency, weakening the connection if not actively maintained. Personal growth, while positive, sometimes shifts compatibility, making once-close friends incompatible. Ultimately, a lack of effort to nurture the relationship often seals its decline.
What other types of relationship, apart from friends or family, are important in people’s lives today?
In today’s interconnected world, professional relationships like colleagues or mentors are crucial for career growth and skill development. Romantic partnerships also play a vital role, offering emotional intimacy and long-term companionship. Community ties—such as neighbors or local groups—provide support networks and a sense of belonging beyond close circles. Additionally, online connections, though less tangible, enable global collaborations and friendships that transcend geographical boundaries. These relationships collectively contribute to personal fulfillment, professional success, and a broader social identity in an increasingly interdependent society.
Have relationships with neighbours where you live changed in recent years? How?
Yes, neighborly relationships here have shifted significantly in recent years due to urbanization and busier lifestyles. Casual chats or borrowing items are less common now, replaced by more structured interactions like community events or online neighborhood groups. While technology helps connect people digitally, many feel a decline in genuine familiarity, though proactive efforts like shared gardening projects or safety initiatives show a desire to rebuild trust. Overall, the dynamic has become more intentional but less spontaneous compared to the past.
How important do you think it is for a person to spend some time alone? Why?
Spending time alone is essential for maintaining mental well-being and fostering self-awareness. It allows individuals to recharge emotionally, reflect on experiences, and gain clarity on personal goals without external influences. For instance, solitude boosts creativity by offering space for ideas to develop while reducing stress from constant social interaction. Even in social cultures, this solitude ensures balance and prevents burnout, making it a vital component of a healthy lifestyle.
