Friction within harmony: Everyday dynamics and the negotiation of diversity in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. (26th January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: de Jong, Edwin; Twikromo, Argo
• Is Part Of: Journal of Southeast Asian studies. Volume 48:Number 1(2017:Feb.)
• Page Start: 71
• Page End: 90
• Publication Date: 2017-01-26
• Subjects: Asia, Southeastern -- History -- Periodicals; Asia, Southeastern -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; 950
• DOI: 10.1017/S0022463416000485
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-4634

Abstract

Abstract : Most studies on diversity in Southeast Asia focus on the nation-state, with much less attention given to everyday encounters and the negotiation of diversity in local contexts. This article investigates the discourses and practices of various actors in the historically tolerant, generally peaceful, and diverse city and special region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This study examines this ethnic, religious and cultural diversity and illustrates the negotiations among various interest groups and actors that strive to maintain this balance, or sometimes to strategically disrupt it. As such, the findings offer a different way to understand and interrogate the challenges confronting present-day diversity both on a local level in Yogyakarta, and also for Indonesia and Southeast Asia at large.