Discover Indonesian Customs and Culture from A to Z

Indonesia captivates travelers not only with its stunning photo spots but also with its rich and diverse cultural heritage. This cultural richness is a significant factor that makes the 'Land of a Thousand Islands' unforgettable for countless visitors. Join Mytour as we explore the unique and fascinating aspects of Indonesian culture in the article below.

Indonesian culture is a blend of influences from various nations

Indonesia boasts a vibrant mix of cultures, with over 300 ethnic groups, each contributing its distinct traditions. This diversity has shaped the rich and multifaceted culture of the Indonesian people. Notably, 86% of the population practices Islam.

Indonesian culture is influenced by India, China, Arabia, Malaysia, and Europe. This cultural fusion and adaptation have made Indonesia more relatable to countries worldwide, attracting numerous visitors eager to explore its unique heritage.

Traditional Festivals

Festivals in Indonesia are celebrated to bring positivity and commemorate significant events, fostering spiritual growth and cultural pride. Below are some of the most culturally significant Indonesian festivals that hold deep meaning for the nation.

• Lion Dance during Tahun Baru Imlek Tahun: The lion dance is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. This vibrant activity often takes place in bustling commercial centers.
• Ramadan Festival: During this holy month, people pray, cleanse themselves, refrain from smoking, and avoid negative actions from sunrise to sunset. Many visit mosques to read the Quran or spend time with family.
• Bull Racing Festival: Held to celebrate the harvest season of the Minangkabau people, the bulls participating in the race are meticulously cared for and selected. The winning bull is sold at a higher price, enhancing the owner's reputation and the value of their livestock.

• Tahun Baru Masehi Festival: This is considered the New Year celebration for Muslims. Comparable to the traditional Lunar New Year in Vietnam, this festival holds similar cultural significance.
• Greased Pole Climbing Festival: Also known as Panjat Pinang, this event commemorates Indonesia's independence. Participants climb greased poles to reach prizes like bicycles and household items placed at the top, symbolizing determination and celebration.

Unique Culinary Delights

When discussing Indonesian culture, its cuisine is a highlight that captivates visitors. Muslims in Indonesia avoid pork, favoring dishes made from lamb, beef, chicken, and fish. Rice is a staple, often served with vegetables and meat, creating a harmonious balance in daily meals.

Indonesian dishes are known for their spiciness, with chefs skillfully blending various spices to enhance flavors. The culinary culture is heavily influenced by Indian and Middle Eastern traditions, offering a unique yet familiar experience for visitors from Vietnam or other Asian countries. Some must-try dishes when visiting Indonesia include:

• Nasi goreng (Fried Rice)
• Bebek betutu (Spiced Duck)
• Nasi Kuning (Yellow Rice)
• Tempeh (Fermented Soybean Cake)
• Babi Guling (Suckling Pig)
• Satay (Grilled Skewers)
• Spicy Marinated Fish
• Sate Lilit (Balinese Minced Satay)

Kebaya – Indonesia's Traditional Attire

The Kebaya, originating in the 15th century, was initially worn by the nobility. Today, it serves as the national dress for Indonesian women, often donned during celebrations and festivals, showcasing the distinct identity of Indonesian culture. This elegant outfit features a fitted design, highlighted by a long-sleeved outer shawl. Made from vibrant patterned fabrics, the Kebaya stands out with its wide, intricately decorated collar.

For men, the Kebaya ensemble includes a shirt, Saput, Udeng hat, and Songket Kamben scarf. The shirt, typically made from cotton or lightweight silk, ensures comfort. The Saput, a shoulder cloth, is often richly colored, while the Udeng hat serves as protection from the elements and is a traditional Indonesian headpiece.

Working Hours

Typically, Indonesians start their workday at 7:00 AM and finish by 3:00 PM. Banks usually operate from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays and until 1:00 PM on Saturdays. Overall, working hours in Indonesia are quite similar to those in Vietnam and other Asian countries. This schedule not only reflects Indonesian culture but also demonstrates the efficient and scientific approach to work in the country.

Currency

The official currency of Indonesia is the rupiah, which is divided into 100 sen. Credit cards are widely accepted in major restaurants and hotels. For convenience, travelers can exchange US dollars at local banks to facilitate shopping and daily expenses.

Cash in Indonesia

Travelers to Indonesia are advised to exchange currency in advance. Many shops and eateries in Indonesia do not accept foreign currency. Exchanging money 1-2 days before your trip can save you significant time and hassle.

Communication Culture

It would be a major oversight to discuss Indonesian culture without mentioning communication etiquette. Body language plays a crucial role, with the head considered a sacred part of the body. Indonesians avoid touching others' heads casually. Additionally, it is customary to stand up when someone enters a room as a sign of respect.

Indonesians greatly appreciate compliments and strive to avoid offending others. They place a high value on politeness and careful choice of words in communication. When handing something to someone, they often use both hands to show respect and gratitude.

Gift-Giving Customs in Indonesia

Gift-giving is an integral part of Indonesian culture and social etiquette. During meetings, it is common to bring small gifts for partners as a way to make a positive first impression. Gifts featuring company logos or symbolic items are often preferred in such situations.

For Indonesians of Chinese descent, receiving gifts is highly valued. However, to avoid appearing greedy, they may decline a gift up to three times. Additionally, as a sign of politeness, recipients usually refrain from opening gifts immediately. They wait until the event concludes or the giver has left.

To express affection, Indonesians often give flowers. However, the bouquet should contain an even number of flowers, as odd numbers are believed to bring bad luck. Similar to Vietnam, during the Lunar New Year, Indonesians exchange red envelopes. These "hong bao" are given to children, business partners, or subordinates as a gesture of goodwill.

Gifts to Avoid Giving

Indonesian culture is generally welcoming and focused on spreading positivity. However, there are certain customs to be mindful of to avoid unintentional mistakes. When giving gifts, keep the following in mind:

• Items associated with funerals, such as straw sandals, handkerchiefs, or clocks.

• Avoid wrapping gifts in white, black, or blue paper.

• Do not give sharp objects as gifts.

• Avoid giving cosmetics or clothing that do not align with Islamic customs.

• Refrain from gifting perfumes, pork, or items featuring images of dogs.

• It is not customary to bring food as a gift to parties.

• Men giving flowers to women can easily be misinterpreted.

• Avoid offering beef-based products to those who follow Hinduism.

Language

Bahasa Indonesia is the official language of Indonesia. Its vocabulary is influenced by Hindi, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese, English, and Sanskrit. The writing system uses the Latin alphabet.

It is evident that Indonesian culture is shaped by influences from various countries. By adapting and integrating these elements, Indonesia has developed a rich and unique cultural identity, from cuisine and communication to language. Beyond these aspects, Indonesia also captivates tourists with its stunning landscapes. To book an Indonesia tour at the best price, call the hotline Mytour for immediate assistance!