 |
| SBY48 Rumoured to Join 48 Group Family – Could This Be the Next Big Idol Move in Indonesia? |
Rumour's been flying thick lately – could we really be getting an SBY48? Yep, whispers about Surabaya getting its very own 48 Group sister have been making the rounds, and honestly, it’s not as far-fetched as it sounds.
If it does happen, SBY48 would be Indonesia’s first local 48 Group sister outside Jakarta, and the 11th overseas group under the AKB48 franchise. But the big question remains: do we actually need an SBY48? And more importantly – will it work?
Let’s break it down.
📈 Why SBY48 Could Work in Today’s Local Music Scene
 |
| SBY48 trademark is currently at the 'Director’s Approval for Submission' stage |
🔗 Centralised Industry? Not Really a Thing Anymore.
Sure, Jakarta’s still the entertainment hub, but in the age of TikTok and Instagram reels, location’s no longer king – virality is. Even artists based in the capital struggle to get noticed if they’re not trending. That means a group like SBY48 doesn’t need to be in Jakarta to make waves. If they can grab public attention and serve strong content, they’re golden.
🎤 Festivals Are the New Main Stage
Gone are the days when musicians had to wait for prime-time TV slots or mall gigs. Music festivals are where it’s at now, and they’re happening all over the country – from Bandung to Makassar. SBY48 could carve out a spot in this scene, especially with fresh regional flair and the backing of a known brand.
🎭 Theatre Culture is a Game-Changer
 |
Let’s not forget what’s kept JKT48 going strong all these years – the theatre system. Loyal fans. Regular shows. Real-time connection. Surabaya’s known for its passionate communities, and if SBY48 adopts a similar fixed-theatre concept, it could build a strong, stable ecosystem that goes beyond just chasing charts.
✍️ Take Notes from CGM48 and BNK48
Even if SBY48 doesn't blow up straight away, they’ve got plenty of models to follow. CGM48 started small, relying heavily on BNK48’s network. SBY48 could slowly build momentum with support from JKT48, especially in collab events, YouTube crossover content, and multi-group festivals.
👯♀️ Smaller Start = Sharper Impact
KLP48 debuted with just 13 members – and that might actually be the sweet spot. Starting with fewer girls means lower costs, tighter management, and more screen time per member. That gives each idol a chance to build a solid fanbase and distinct persona early on.
🕵️♂️ What We’d Gain from an SBY48 Launch
 |
-
More setlists and musical diversity in the Indonesian 48 Group scene.
-
Potential for two Indonesian teams to join international events – think NHK Kouhaku or AKB48’s global senbatsu singles.
-
JKT48’s brand gets a power-up, proving its ability to lead a proper franchise expansion.
-
More talk show and interview opportunities = more media buzz.
-
Fans in Surabaya get regular access to idol theatre life – no more waiting for pop-ups or guest shows.
-
East Javanese culture gets a spotlight, complete with that cheeky Surabayan humour and dialect on stage and in content.
-
Opens doors for aspiring idols outside of Jakarta who may have missed out due to location.
⚠️ But Let’s Be Real… It’s Not All Smooth Sailing
 |
🤔 So, Do We Need SBY48?
If we're talking growth, diversity, and regional inclusion, then yes – SBY48 could be the breath of fresh air the 48 Group ecosystem in Indonesia needs.
But it won’t work unless it's done right: genuine support from JKT48, a strong local team in Surabaya, smart marketing, and a clear identity that doesn't just copy-paste what’s worked before.
The key? Don’t force it – build it. If SBY48 gets the chance to develop at its own pace, with the right support and freedom to shape its own character, it might just surprise us all.