Indonesia
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Indonesia?
We asked people in Indonesia if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"It is important to be mindful of cultural etiquette when visiting a foreign country such as Indonesia. It is important to be respectful of the local customs and remain open-minded to their traditions. It is best to avoid any public displays of affection, such as kissing, hugging, or hand-holding. Refrain from making negative remarks about the country or its culture, as this can be perceived as rude and insulting. Refrain from wearing revealing clothing, as it can be seen as disrespectful. It is also important to remove one’s shoes when entering religious sites like mosques or temples and to avoid eating with one's left hand. Lastly, it is also important to be mindful of the fact that Indonesians tend to use last names to indicate respect," remarked another expat who made the move to Indonesia.
"I do not require my household help to cook much during Ramadan since they are fasting. Near the end of Ramadan this month, I had made a new recipe and my helper was in the kitchen drying dishes. She was asking questions about the recipe, when I evidently had brain-fade and said, "Here, taste it and let me know what you think." She just laughed and said, "Mem, it Ramadan!"," explained one expat living in Duri/Simpang Padong, Riau, Sumatra, Indonesia.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Indonesia?
- How do I find a place to live in Indonesia?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Indonesia?
- What is the average cost of housing in Indonesia?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Indonesia?
- What should I pack when moving to Indonesia?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Indonesia?
- Why do people move to Indonesia?
- What are healthcare services like in Indonesia?
- What are medical services in Indonesia like?
- What are typical rents in Indonesia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Indonesia?
If you live in Indonesia, newcomers to Indonesia would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
