Indonesia is a country with a tropical climate and only 2 seasons, the dry and rainy seasons. However, Indonesia is also an Eastern country with a majority Muslim population. So, before visiting, it's a good idea to learn about the etiquette in Indonesia first.
In addition to Indonesian etiquette, there are also many tribes which of course have different cultures. All of these factors affect the appropriate social behaviour in Indonesia. In this article, you will discover what is allowed and what is frowned upon.
Religious appropriate
Having only 2 seasons makes it easier to pay attention to the clothes you have to bring and wear. But, don’t forget to pay attention to your destination, preferred activities, and also etiquette in Indonesia.
Some places require a special dress code for Indonesia. Like when going to a holy temple, you have to wear modest clothes. This means clothing that for men covers your knees and for women, your knees, shoulders and bosom.
You don't have to buy a cover, most places also provide rental of these ‘sarong’. This is not a scam, but indeed a necessity related to religion, culture and etiquette in Indonesia.
Another example is when you want to visit the Mataram Islamic Center in Lombok. You have to wear more appropriate clothes. It’s even best for a woman to bring a scarf to cover her head. You should pay attention to this because it relates to appropriate behaviour in Lombok.
Halal tourism Lombok
Lombok is an island with a majority Muslim population. This is in contrast to Bali, which is predominantly Hindu. For Islam, the dress code is more specific. At some point, the local government wanted to promote Lombok as a 'Halal Tourism'. This went as far as to dedicate several beaches as 'halal' beaches.
But don't worry, only specific beaches will prohibit the use of bikinis, the sale of alcohol and all other ‘haram’ things. However, it is still frowned upon anywhere to ride a motorbike with only a bikini or bare chest. That is simply inappropriate and frowned upon in any country.
Comparison with Asian etiquette
Apart from being related to religion, Lombok etiquette itself is actually similar to other Asian cultures. For instance:
- You are not advised to use your left hand to take or give something.
- Don't wear your shoes inside the house.
- When eating offer your food to friends who join you.
- And so on.
Local people also greet others with a small smile, so don't be surprised when you find strangers smiling at you. For greetings, Indonesian people don't hug or kiss their acquaintances to say hello or goodbye. In certain cases, this is even seen as an impolite act. So all you have to do is shake hands or simply push them together in front of your chest as if praying. As a symbol of sincerity, they will usually touch their middle chest below the neck.
Approaching strangers
When you get lost or need help, be aware that not everyone in Lombok speaks English. Thanks to technology, you can use Google Translate or other apps to convey your message. To ask appropriately for help, you should get out of your car or get off your motorbike and take off your helmet.
Furthermore, the local people really respect elders. Not just the elderly, but everyone older than you. Be extra polite when talking to them, if you want to follow Indonesian etiquette. Afterwards, sincerely thank them with a nice gesture and ask permission to continue your journey.
Conclusion etiquette in Indonesia
Those were some important points for etiquette in Indonesia that you should know before visiting. You will learn about other Indonesian conventions bit by bit when you stay here. Basically, Indonesians, especially the people of Lombok, are very very friendly. You just have to mingle with them to learn more.
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Last updated on: 28 December 2022