Generational Difference, the Category Pemuda and the Several Paradoxes of Becoming Indonesian for Nuaulu in the Moluccan Islands.

Being Indonesian is experienced differently depending on age and generation. In 1970 senior Nuaulu men had been young adults under Dutch colonialism. Those who in 2020 occupied key politically influential positions grew up in an independent Indonesia. Conflict with state agencies over resources, plus practical difficulties arising from non-recognition of their religion have been obstacles to national integration. However, the impact of Christian-Muslim conflict between 1999 and 2003, and the opportunities afforded by 'reformasi' and 'otonomi daerah' emboldened younger Nuaulu to balance being good Indonesian citizens with the pursuit of a 'traditionalist pathway to modernity'. This paper charts how educational access, the emergence of youth culture and of the category 'pemuda' impacted after 1990 on the organisation of government work groups and appropriate forms of reward. These events threatened traditional authority and yet would ultimately provide a means for achieving territorial autonomy and state recognition for their beliefs and practices.