Suryadi. (2005). Identity, media and the margins: Radio in Pekanbaru, Riau (Indonesia). Journal of Southeast Asian Studies, 36(1), 131-151.

The Suharto regime in Indonesia forced the country’s diverse ethnic population to identify with one unified, nationalistic culture. Since the Reformation Era or zaman Reformasi began in 1998, regionalism has become a major aspect of political, economic and cultural life. Suryadi examines the expression of regional identity in private radio programs and its effect on the, “national culture-under-construction in post-Suharto Indonesia.” The study examines how locals identify themselves through the electronic media, primarily through radio programming.

Suryadi conducted fieldwork in Pekanbaru, Riau in 1999 and 2000. The study is based on his fieldwork, continued observation of media developments since the fieldwork was completed, and a case study at Radio Soreram Indah (RSI). His research focuses on the audio-visual media and the radio programs that use regional languages and cultural discourse.  Located close to Singapore and  Malaysia, the Riau province receives programming from both international and domestic media. Suryadi frequently focuses on Malays, an ethnic group struggling for cultural and national identity, and especially influenced by international media.

The author presents an in-depth political, economic and cultural description of the province and Malays. The article also includes a detailed history and the status of Indonesian television and radio, particularly in Riau. Radio is the strongest media presence in the country and represents more regional languages than other mediums. Unlike television, radio provides a forum to voice dissent and, “has considerable subversive power against the state.”  

Pekanbaru residents consider RSI a trademark of local culture. The station generates considerable advertising revenue. Popular RSI programs air readings of audience-composed poems, host commentary, guest storytellers and regional music requested by listeners (played from cassettes). They broadcast in the local language or dialect of the show’s target audience, which range from Malays, Minangkabau and by social class. RSI’s programming changes to appeal to emerging ethnic groups like Gendang Ocu and Ranah Minang Maumbau.

Local Riau radio programs target specific ethnic groups. The different languages and dialects they broadcast promote listeners' desire for a local cultural identity distinct from the previously imposed national one. This development allows for greater expression of regional identity and pride, but increases the tension between different ethnic groups in Riau. Local communities now realize they have a presence within the media.  According to Suryadi, the local content embraced by Pekanbaru audiences demonstrates radio’s potential to help protect traditional culture from the effects of globalization. The study gives a comprehensive overview of radio broadcasting's cultural impact in Indonesia. (Reviewed by Kara Lawton) (Edited by Priscilla Penate)