Indonesian People and Culture

The culture of Indonesia has been shaped by a mix of indigenous customs and outside influences, owing to its strategic location on ancient trade routes connecting the Far East, South Asia, and the Middle East. These influences introduced Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity to the archipelago. Today, the majority of Indonesians practice Islam, making Indonesia one of the largest Muslim-majority countries in the world. However, religious diversity remains, with regions like Bali predominantly Hindu, while the Toraja in Sulawesi, Minahasa, and Batak in Sumatra, as well as parts of East Nusa Tenggara and Papua, practicing either Catholicism or Protestantism.

Cultural Diversity Across Indonesia

Indonesian culture is incredibly diverse, encompassing various ethnic groups, each with unique traditions and social norms. Ethnic groups such as the Betawi in Jakarta, Dayak in Kalimantan, and Dani in Papua continue to practice traditional customs and wear traditional clothing. Pancasila, Indonesia’s founding philosophy, promotes respect for religious and cultural differences, uniting Indonesians across beliefs and traditions under five principles: One God, humanity, national unity, democracy, and social justice.

Indonesian Arts and Entertainment

Indonesian culture is enriched by traditional arts like batik textiles, wayang shadow puppetry, and gamelan music. The influence of Indian culture is also prominent, especially in music and film. Dangdut, a popular form of Indonesian folk music, blends elements of Indian, Arabic, Malay, and local folk music, reflecting the country’s multicultural roots. Modern entertainment such as television, film, and music is influenced by Western culture, adding to the cultural mosaic of Indonesia.

Indigenous Culture and Rural Traditions

While urban areas showcase a blend of modern influences, there are regions where indigenous Indonesian culture remains preserved. Groups like the Toraja, Dani, Dayak, Esmat, and Betawi maintain ethnic rituals, wear traditional clothing, and observe ancient customs. The Toraja funerary practices in Sulawesi and the Dayak rituals in Kalimantan are examples of unique cultural heritage that draw interest from both locals and visitors.

Indonesian Etiquette and Social Norms

Understanding Indonesian social norms and etiquette is essential for travelers. Indonesians value friendliness, modesty, and respect, especially in regard to religion. For instance, it is common to use the right hand when eating, giving, or receiving items, as the left hand is associated with bathroom use. When meeting someone, Indonesians often greet with a polite smile or a light handshake; however, some Muslims may prefer to nod or clasp their hands together rather than shake hands.

Travel Do’s and Don’ts in Indonesia

Indonesia is a vast archipelago of more than 17,000 islands with a population of around 255 million people, making it the fourth most populous country in the world. Indonesia is home to six major religions—Islam, Catholicism, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Confucianism—with Islam as the largest religious group. As one of the largest Muslim-majority countries globally, Indonesia’s cultural values and practices differ significantly from those in Western cultures. The country’s diversity is immense, with various ethnic groups, languages, and regional customs adding to its cultural complexity. This mix of religions, belief systems, and social norms makes Indonesia a uniquely complex and fascinating country to explore.

No one expects visitors to instantly understand or behave like an Indonesian, but taking time to learn about Indonesian culture can enhance your experience and interactions. Generally, Indonesians, especially in Java, appreciate a polite smile from visitors, and friendliness is often reciprocated with warmth and hospitality.

Here are some important travel do’s and don’ts to consider during your visit to Indonesia. Note that Bali has its own unique customs and may differ slightly due to its high volume of international visitors.

Indonesia Travel Do’s:

• Eat like a local: In small local restaurants, eating with your right hand is customary. Using the right hand is essential in social settings, as it is considered polite and respectful.

• Use your right hand for eating, gifting, or receiving items. Avoid using the left hand, as it is associated with personal hygiene and is considered impolite.

• Handshake etiquette: Use your right hand for a handshake, but remember that some Muslim men and women may prefer to greet with a nod, smile, or by clasping their hands together without physical contact. This is a sign of respect and modesty.

• Respect prayer times: Muslims pray five times a day—dawn, midday, afternoon, sunset, and evening. In many areas, prayer times are broadcast via loudspeakers from mosques, and these calls to prayer may seem loud, especially if you’re staying nearby. It’s respectful to remain quiet during these times, as prayer is highly valued in Indonesian culture.

• Remove your shoes: When entering homes, places of worship, or certain indoor spaces, it’s customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect.

• Crossing the road: Pedestrian crossings can be challenging. Whether you’re on a zebra crossing or not, use your right hand to signal cars on your right or your left hand for cars on your left. Traffic is fast-paced, so crossing carefully is crucial.

• Dress modestly: In many parts of Indonesia, especially for women, it’s best to wear long pants and sleeved tops. Modest dress is particularly appreciated in religious or rural areas, helping visitors blend in respectfully.

• Bring toilet paper: Public restrooms often don’t provide toilet paper, as many Indonesians use water to cleanse with their left hand. Bathrooms frequently feature a water tank and plastic scoop for this purpose, so carrying your own toilet paper can be convenient.

• Transportation options: Renting a car or motorcycle with a driver is a common way to explore cities. Public transportation is available but may not be as developed or well-maintained as in some other countries.

• Smile! Indonesians are known for their friendliness and warmth. A genuine smile goes a long way and is often reciprocated, making interactions positive and pleasant.

Indonesia Travel Don’ts:

• Avoid speaking loudly: Indonesians are generally soft-spoken and appreciate a gentle tone. Speaking loudly may come across as rude or disrespectful, especially in more formal or religious settings.

• Dress modestly in public: Avoid wearing tank tops and short skirts in public spaces, especially if you’re a woman. Dressing modestly is a way to show respect, and wearing revealing clothing may draw unwanted attention.

• Avoid using your left hand: In Indonesian culture, the left hand is reserved for bathroom use and is considered unclean for social interactions. Try to use your right hand for gestures like eating, giving, or receiving items.

• Respect religious practices: Avoid disturbing or commenting negatively on religious activities. Religion is a sensitive topic in Indonesia, and interrupting prayer times, especially those in mosques, may be seen as disrespectful.

• Don’t pressure locals to drink alcohol: Most Indonesians, particularly Muslims, refrain from drinking alcohol due to religious beliefs. Offering alcohol or insisting on drinking together may make locals uncomfortable.

Additional Cultural Insights

Indonesia’s cultural diversity is rich and multifaceted, making it an exciting place to explore. Within this diversity, there is a unique blend of religious practices, social hierarchies, and cultural etiquette that guide everyday interactions. In regions like Java and Sumatra, traditions may differ from those in Bali or Sulawesi, where customs reflect local beliefs and historical influences.

Taking the time to understand these social norms can enhance your experience, helping you navigate interactions more comfortably and respectfully. Whether you’re sharing a meal, crossing the street, or attending a local event, a small effort to learn and observe Indonesian customs can lead to meaningful connections and a deeper appreciation for the people and culture of Indonesia.