Economist Podcasts The Intelligence: Indonesia’s election, more TikTok than tick-box
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Jan 31, 2024 
Su Lin Wong, Southeast Asia correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on Indonesia's unique approach to campaigning, where social media savvy trumps policy discussions. She highlights a 72-year-old candidate’s transformation via TikTok, raising questions about authenticity in politics. The conversation also delves into the declining Panama Canal's impact on global trade and the challenges posed by wild boar hybrids in Canada, which are disrupting local agriculture while alarming American pork producers.
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Prabowo's TikTok Campaign
- Indonesian presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto, 72, is gaining popularity with young voters through viral TikTok videos.
- These videos show him dancing, removing his shirt, and acting like a teenager.
Prabowo's Controversial Past
- Despite Prabowo Subianto's controversial past involving human rights abuses and denial of election results, he remains popular.
- Many Indonesians seem unaware or unconcerned about his history.
Jokowi's Influence
- Prabowo's popularity, especially among millennials and Gen Z, is boosted by Jokowi's backing and the widespread use of smartphones.
- This allows politicians to reach voters across Indonesia's many islands.