Pushing boundaries with their multicultural identity and fresh global sound, PAPION is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about rising girl groups in Asia. Comprising talented members from Indonesia, Thailand, and the United States, the group represents diversity, confidence, and self-expression through music and performance.
After making their debut with the energetic single “Push The Button,” PAPION continues to capture attention with their powerful stage presence, synchronized performances, and inspiring message of transformation—much like the butterfly symbolism behind their name.
In this interview, PAPION talks about their debut journey, working together as an international group, their music, inspirations, and what fans can look forward to in the future.
PAPION represents multiple cultures—how does that diversity shape your identity as a group?
(PONN): I think our diversity is what makes PAPION special. We all come from different cultures and backgrounds, so we each bring different ideas, personalities, and styles into the group. Even though we’re different, we learn from each other and grow together, and that makes our bond stronger.
(ANGEL): It makes our group more unique and personal because usually in idol groups, they have a certain style or look that they’re trying to achieve. For example, if the concept is cute, everyone in that group will have that cute look. But in PAPION, we have different styles, looks, and vibes, and that’s completely okay. People have their own definition of beauty and type, and that’s okay.
What does the name “PAPION” personally mean to each of you?
(NAIA):
PAPION, to me, means the ability to change and evolve into the best version of yourself.
(NAUFA):
PAPION represents our growth to become stronger and our transformation to become more beautiful as a girl group and as individuals.
How would you describe PAPION’s sound and concept to someone
discovering you for the first time?
(FARAH):
We have an unlimited concept for now. We want to try a lot of concepts, including unexpected
ones for sure.
(PONN):
We want to try a lot of different concepts because there’s no right or wrong in music. Music is music.
What makes PAPION different from other global girl groups today?
(NAUFA):
I think our multicultural identity is one of the biggest things that makes us unique. We want to show that diversity can create something stronger than creativity alone.
(NAIA):
It’s us hahaha. No two people in the world are the same. Everyone has something special to offer, and just as we don’t have members of other groups in PAPION, they don’t have PAPION girls in theirs.
(ANGEL):
We don’t try to fit into stereotypes, we try to embrace the differences.
Can you share your journey before debuting in PAPION?
(NAUFA):
For me, the training phase was hectic and chill at the same time because I practiced straight after school, but the training got me so excited to learn new things, and I loved seeing my sisters at our dorm.
(FARAH):
Before I signed the contract, I was in the acting industry when I was in high school. After that, there was an audition for a global girl group, and my mom asked me to try… and I got in! Actually, being an idol has been my dream since I was 12
What were the biggest challenges training in a multicultural group?
(ANGEL):
Different characters and cultures. We were raised very differently, so we have different responses to certain situations.
(NAIA):
The biggest challenge for me was learning new customs like salim for Indonesians or ไหว้ (wai) for Thai people. Growing up in the West, there’s a lot less age hierarchy, so it’s hard for me to remember sometimes.
How do you overcome language or cultural differences as a team?
(NAUFA):
We respect each other, and sometimes we teach each other our languages, slang, or cultural habits to understand each other better.
(NAIA):
We use English as our primary language, and we all try to learn bits and pieces of each other’s languages. We all try very hard to be respectful and understanding, so we’ve never had a major issue with either of these.
Was there a moment during training when you felt like “this is really happening”?
(NAIA):
For me, the “is this really happening” moment didn’t happen during training, but when I was packing to move to Indonesia.
(NAUFA):
It felt real when we started preparing for debut songs, choreographies, and also the concept.
Your debut track “Push The Button” talks about emotions—what message do you want listeners to take from it?
(PONN):
Love can be really sweet, and it doesn’t always have to hurt you, even when you don’t end up being together.
(NAUFA):
It’s about not being afraid to show our feelings or to do what we want without hesitation. I want the listeners to feel confident about expressing themselves.
How involved are you in the creative process (lyrics, choreography,concepts)?
(FARAH):
So far, I’ve recommended some genres and concepts we should try for the next comeback. Besides that, if I have a chance, I want to be involved in writing lyrics
(PONN):
I had the opportunity to be involved in choreographing some dance parts of the song “Song from My Heart.”
What kind of music or concepts do you want to explore in the future?
(NAIA):
I would love to try every genre! As for what I want to try next, I think some darker or more hyperpop-leaning songs would be really fun to try.
(ANGEL):
I used to be an R&B and jazz singer, so maybe something around that.
If you could collaborate with any global artist, who would it be and
why?
(NAUFA):
Personally, I want to collaborate with Tate McRae, Madison Beer, or Nadin Amizah (an Indonesian singer). I’m a big fan of them, and I think their type of songs suits me!
(NAIA):
Hayley Williams! She’s an amazing vocalist and also seems like a cool person to talk to and hang out with!!
What are each member’s unique strengths within the group?
(FARAH):
Naia has an amazing voice and is a belting queen! She also has a unique style. Angel is really good at public speaking and communicating! Also, her bold voice makes her unique.
Ponn is our main dancer and is really good at dancing and grooving!! She is so cool when she dances. I want to be cool like her. Naufa has a very sweet honey voice that could put me to sleep hahaha.
She is also really good at dancing!
(NAUFA):
Farah: lady outside, baby inside. Her facial expressions are so good when performing
Naia: our queen of high notes. Fun fact: her name means dolphin in Hawaii (hope u get what I mean hahahaha).
Angel: douyin girl, strong alto voice.
Ponn: swag to the max, hip-hop gyal. Her power when she dances is crazy, but actually she’s sopretty when she dresses feminine.
Naufa me: sexy summer maknae, attitude like Miss Indonesia but a little bit jamet (chaotic-core)
Who is most likely to take the lead during practice or performances?
(NAIA):
Despite being the youngest, Naufa has been in the entertainment industry the longest and ends up taking the lead many times
(NAIA):
I hope PAPION can inspire young people to follow their dreams and do what makes them happy. Give off love and surround yourself with people who show you love back.
(ANGEL):
In my opinion, usually Ponn and Naufa tend to like being in control during practices.
Can you share a fun or chaotic moment you experienced together
(NAUFA):
Every day is chaotic in PAPION’S world.
(NAIA):
Just last week, we all went to a big park/nature reserve together and ran around trying to ride electric scooters hahaha. It was my first time riding a scooter.
How do you support each other during stressful times?
(FARAH):
Saying “good job” to everyone, and I always try my best to bring a bright atmosphere.
(NAUFA):
We remind each other that we’re together in this. Support can mean giving advice, sometimes just listening, joking around, or spending time together after practic
What’s something fans would be surprised to learn about you?
(ANGEL):
I’m secretly a big Game of Thrones nerd
(NAIA):
Something Filipino fans might not know is that I actually have a lot of Filipino friends back home!
How do you stay grounded despite the pressure of being in a girl group?
(PONN):
For me, having a good mindset means trusting yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself, the past
is the past. Focus on the present.
(NAUFA):
We remember that our reasons for being here are truly because we love performing and music. Trying to keep in touch with family and closest friends also helps a lot.
What motivates you to keep pushing forward?
(NAIA):
The people who support me! Our fans, friends, family, and anyone else who shows us love! I want to give back and be someone they can all be proud of!
(NAUFA):
Same dreams, one team. All of our fans and all the people who believe in us give us strength to keep improving.
What does a “perfect day” look like for each of you outside idol life?
(FARAH):
A morning walk in nature, watching a movie, and staying in bed until night.
(NAIA):
Sleeping in, doing a fun activity with some friends like laser tag or an obstacle course, spending time together chatting, and then going home and playing games before going to sleep.
What message do you want to send to your fans around the world!
(PONN):
I really want to say thank you. Even though I may not be good enough for you guys yet, thank you so much for all the love and support. I truly appreciate it. I’ll keep working hard to meet your expectations and make good songs for you guys. I really love you all. Thank you for loving me.
(FARAH):
I will always do my best to make you guys happy! I can’t describe how grateful I am to have you guys! Please keep loving PAPION and wait a little bit for our next comeback!
(NAUFA):
Thank you so much for supporting and loving us. I hope our music gives you comfort and positive energy wherever you are. I love you so much.
How do you hope PAPION can inspire young people?
(PONN):
I hope PAPION can be someone girls look up to, as girls who follow their dreams and love themselves.
(FARAH):
I hope our music can inspire you, and I hope PAPION can be a group people look up to while following their dreams.
(NAUFA):
I hope PAPION can inspire people to embrace their individuality and never be afraid of being different. Our differences can become your greatest strength!
(ANGEL):
If we can do it, so can you! Chase your dreams!!!
Get ready to fall in love with the rising international girl group, PAPION
Make sure to follow their official social media accounts and stay updated on their latest music, performances, and upcoming activities!
Instagram: @official.papion
TikTok: @official.papion
YouTube: PAPION Official
Show them lots of love and support as they continue their journey!
Welcome to City Writer 
Leave a comment