Indonesian Culture and Etiquette Tips

Summary

The transcript discusses cultural norms in Indonesia, emphasizing the importance of using the right hand for giving and receiving due to the left hand's association with bathroom use. It also touches on the unique handshake style, the significance of nodding to gain attention, and the practice of bowing when passing through groups. The speaker advises taking off shoes when entering homes and highlights the warmth and curiosity of locals towards foreigners, especially Americans. They mention the prevalence of begging and the power of a smile to foster connections. Lastly, it addresses the common experience of being called out to by locals, often using 'Bule' to refer to white foreigners.

Takeaways

• 👍 You should always use your right hand for giving, receiving, and other interactions in Indonesia, as using the left hand is considered offensive.
• 🛑 The left hand is used for personal hygiene in Indonesia, and that's why the right hand is preferred for public interactions.
• 🤝 Indonesians have a unique way of shaking hands, where they pull back quickly after the initial contact.
• 😊 Nodding and making eye contact are polite ways to initiate contact with someone, especially when trying to get their attention.
• 🙇 It's courteous to lower yourself slightly when passing between people having a conversation, to avoid crossing their line of sight.
• 👟 It’s common to take off your shoes when entering someone's home, especially if the floor is clean or tiled.
• 🌏 Indonesians are generally very curious and excited to meet foreigners, and they'll often assume you're from Europe or Australia until you tell them you're American.
• 😃 Smiling is an important way to show friendliness and approachability, and it’s something the speaker had to work on during their time there.
• 🤑 Begging is common in Indonesia, and while it's sad to see, it’s a part of life, especially with people suffering from visible disabilities.
• 👋 Foreigners, especially white people, are often called 'mister' or 'Boulet' in Indonesia, which can sound derogatory, but is often just an innocent attempt at communication.

Q & A

Why is it important to use your right hand in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, using the right hand for giving and receiving is considered polite and culturally acceptable, as the left hand is traditionally used for bathroom purposes.

What is the cultural significance of not shaking hands in Indonesia?

Indonesians may not engage in a typical handshake; instead, they might just extend their hand briefly. This is part of their cultural etiquette.

How does nodding play a role in communication in Indonesia?

Noddy is a way to get someone's attention and show respect when initiating a conversation, especially if addressing a woman, by saying 'permisi' which translates to 'excuse me'.

What is the appropriate behavior when walking between people who are conversing in Indonesia?

It is polite to bow down slightly with your hand to the side to avoid passing through their line of sight, showing respect and not interrupting their conversation.

Why is it customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home in Indonesia?

Taking off shoes before entering a home is a sign of respect, especially if the floor is clean like cement or tile, unless it's a dirt floor.

How do Indonesians perceive foreigners, especially Americans?

Foreigners are generally well-received in Indonesia. Americans may be initially mistaken for Australians or Europeans but once they reveal their nationality, they are often met with excitement, especially with references to Obama who spent part of his childhood in Jakarta.

What is the common assumption about foreigners' wealth in Indonesia?

It is a common misconception that foreigners, especially Americans, are wealthy, which sometimes leads to beggars asking for money.

How important is smiling in Indonesian culture?

Smiling is highly valued in Indonesia as it makes people approachable and fosters a friendly atmosphere. It's a simple yet effective way to connect with locals.

What is the local reaction to foreigners showing interest in Indonesian culture and people?

Showing interest in Indonesian culture and people is appreciated and can lead to locals opening up and engaging in conversation, often asking various questions about the foreigner's life and country.

How do Indonesians address foreigners, particularly white individuals?

Foreigners, especially those who appear white, are often called 'Bule' or 'Mister', with 'Bule' being derived from the word 'bulu' meaning hair, referring to the hair color, and it's used to greet or get attention.

What should one expect when walking around in public in Indonesia?

One can expect to be greeted or have comments shouted at them in broken English. It's part of the local interaction style and it's best to get used to it and respond in kind.