Culture in Indonesia

Islam in Java

Indonesian culture is very rich and varies from island to island. In Java, in particular, where Islam shapes the local population's way of life, the people are very tolerant. Every day calls to prayer can be heard throughout the streets of Java, but once there, you will have no problem adapting to whatever your religious beliefs may be.

It is also worth keeping in mind that due to religious observance, all the local stores and administrations close earlier on Friday afternoons. Moreover, Javanese mark the end of Ramadan. On this occasion, it is customary for Javanese people to return to their villages or hometowns to celebrate with their families and relatives. Traffic jams are usually massive at this time of year; therefore, it is best to avoid traveling by car around Indonesia on this day. Remember, however, that 80% of the island's population is Muslim. There is also a minority made up of Hindus, Buddhists and Catholics.

Good to know:
The Javanese have also adopted rituals associated with animism and ancient beliefs of Indian kingdoms, which are reflected in various celebrations such as Selamatan, ceremonial meals dedicated to the rice harvest, etc.

Hinduism in Bali

For their part, the Balinese have chosen the Agama Hindu Dharma, a local form of Hinduism where indigenous beliefs and Buddhism are mixed. But the population of Bali is also composed of some Buddhists, Muslims and Catholics.

The Agama Hindu Dharma lifestyle allows people the freedom to perform simple offerings as well as more complex ceremonies and rituals. For most outsiders, the Balinese lifestyle is a memorable cultural experience.

Read also Adjusting to the culture in Bali

Tips for adapting to the culture in Indonesia

Here are some tips on how to fully integrate into Indonesian society:

• Do not give or take anything with your left hand, as it is considered impure.
• Do not touch children's heads, as this part of the body is considered to be the home of the human soul.
• Stay calm at all times and in all situations, in Indonesia, just like elsewhere in Asia.
• Remove your shoes before entering your host's house.
• Wear appropriate clothes. Locals may be offended by small bikini tops and shorts worn by ladies and boys or by shirtless men.
• Showing affection in public is highly inappropriate in Indonesia.
• When seated, make sure your feet are not touching anyone.
• Hands on hips are a sign of defiance, especially when talking to someone
• You can greet an Indonesian by shaking hands or by simply nodding your head.
• When an Indonesian asks to take a picture of you with their camera or phone, accept. They consider it an honor to be able to take pictures of foreigners.
• Loud laughing is regarded as a sign of anger or embarrassment. If you were to laugh loudly with an Indonesian national on the phone, they might think they made a mistake or said something wrong.
• When an Indonesian offers you a gift, you should accept it with great pleasure. Avoid saying things like, "Oh, you shouldn't have"! It is regarded as a sign of rudeness.
• When talking to Indonesian nationals, choose topics such as tourism or family. Avoid those about politics or international aid, for instance.
• Learn a few words or sentences in the Indonesian national language, Bahasa. There are many dialects and languages in Indonesia, but most Indonesian citizens will speak Bahasa. Your interlocutors will be delighted to see that you have made an effort to talk in their language, and contact will be much easier. Moreover, Bahasa is very easy to learn.
• Don't be confrontational or angry in public. This is very offensive in Indonesian culture, as Indonesians believe that it only shows that you are not capable of controlling your emotions.
• When working in Indonesia, never question the decisions of your superiors. You might be reprimanded or warned, even if you think you are right and in the right.

Useful link:
Government page on Indonesian culture