In recent years, Indonesia has experienced a remarkable transformation in its gaming landscape, with mobile esports emerging as a powerful cultural and economic force. What was once considered a fringe activity now enjoys mainstream legitimacy, supported by both grassroots communities and government institutions.
In this episode, Tito Ambyo speaks with Haryo Pambuko Jiwandono, a PhD candidate at RMIT University researching mobile game esports in Indonesia. They explore how esports in Indonesia has evolved from informal gatherings at internet cafes to a structured industry with professional teams, government support, and international success. In 2024, Indonesia won the FIFA E World Cup against Brazil and dominated in the Football Manager competition against Germany, marking significant achievements on the global stage.
Haryo’s research illuminates how mobile games like Mobile Legends and PUBG Mobile have democratised gaming across Indonesia through their accessibility on smartphones, fostering community-centered “play gatherings” in coffee shops and warung (small shops). While celebrating these successes, the conversation also examines the precarious economic realities faced by many esports athletes and the challenges for Indonesia’s emerging game development industry.
From governmental efforts to build sustainable career paths in esports to the tensions between creative freedom and cultural preservation in game development, this episode offers valuable insights into how digital gaming is reshaping Indonesia’s social landscape and contributing to its global cultural footprint.
In 2025, the Talking Indonesia podcast is co-hosted by Tito Ambyo from RMIT, Dr Jemma Purdey from the Australia-Indonesia Centre, Dr Elisabeth Kramer from the University of New South Wales and Dr Jacqui Baker from Murdoch University.
