2 years ago, I was just another fan in the crowd, cheering for JKT48 - Indonesia's beloved idol group. Like many fans, I found myself deeply connected to the group's energy and spirit. But there was one member who particularly caught my attention: Adeline Wijaya, or as we fondly call her, Delynn.
As a fullstack developer by profession, I've always believed that technology can bridge gaps and create meaningful connections. While watching JKT48 performances and following their journey, an idea began to form in my mind. What if I could combine my technical skills with my passion for JKT48?
The spark came during one of their theater performances in 2024. Seeing the enthusiasm of fellow fans and the dedication of the members, I realized there was an opportunity to create something that could bring the community closer together. That's when the concept of JKT48Connect was born.
My Journey as a Fan
Being a JKT48 fan isn't just about enjoying their music and performances. It's about being part of a community that celebrates Indonesian pop culture and supports these talented young women. Delynn, my oshi, has always inspired me with her dedication and authenticity on stage.
As a developer, I've worked on various projects, but none felt as personal and meaningful as what I was about to embark on. The idea of creating a platform that could serve the JKT48 community felt like the perfect intersection of my professional skills and personal passion.
The Technical Vision
JKT48Connect wasn't just going to be another fan site. I envisioned it as a comprehensive platform that could serve multiple purposes for the JKT48 community. The technical challenges were exciting - how do you create something that captures the essence of idol culture while providing real value to fans?
The development process began with understanding what the community truly needed. Forums for discussion, event information, member profiles, photo galleries, and most importantly, a sense of connection. As a fullstack developer, I had the tools to make this vision a reality.
Building the Bridge
The name "JKT48Connect" reflects the core mission: connecting fans with their favorite group and with each other. Technology became the bridge that could span geographical distances and bring together fans from across Indonesia and beyond.
Every feature was designed with the community in mind. From the user interface that reflects JKT48's vibrant aesthetic to the backend systems that ensure smooth performance during high-traffic events like concert announcements.
Community-Driven Development
What started as a personal project quickly evolved into something bigger. The JKT48 community's feedback and enthusiasm drove many of the platform's features. Fans wanted better ways to organize events, share photos, discuss performances, and stay updated with the latest news.
The platform became a testament to what happens when technology serves genuine human connection. It wasn't just about building another website - it was about creating digital spaces where the JKT48 community could thrive.
The Intersection of Passion and Code
Working on JKT48Connect taught me that the best projects come from genuine passion. When you're building something you truly care about, every line of code carries meaning. Every feature becomes an opportunity to serve a community you're part of.
Delynn and the other JKT48 members continue to inspire not just through their performances, but through the way they connect with fans. JKT48Connect became my way of contributing to that connection, using the skills I've developed as a developer.
Looking Forward
JKT48Connect has grown beyond what I initially imagined. The platform continues to evolve, shaped by the needs of our community and the ever-changing landscape of idol culture in Indonesia.
As both a fan and a developer, I've learned that technology is most powerful when it serves human connection. JKT48Connect stands as proof that when passion meets expertise, beautiful things can happen.
Acknowledgments
This project wouldn't exist without the incredible JKT48 community and the inspiration provided by all the members, especially Delynn. To my fellow fans who believed in this vision and helped shape it into reality - thank you.
The journey from fan to creator has been incredible, and JKT48Connect is just the beginning.
Original story of how technology met idol culture https://jkt48connect.com/about
Written by
Valzy
At
Sun Jun 29 2025