Indonesia is a diverse and predominantly Muslim country, but there is also a significant minority of people who practice other religions, including Protestantism, Catholicism, Hinduism, and Buddhism.

​

Freedom of religion is protected by the Indonesian constitution and people are generally free to practice their religion of choice. However, there have been some instances of religious tensions and violence in the country, particularly between different religious groups. Moreover, every person in Indonesia must indicate their religion in their passport or identification document, and atheism is so far not an option.

​

The government of Indonesia is committed to promoting religious tolerance and has taken steps to address religious tensions, including through education and dialogue. However, it is always a good idea to be respectful of the customs and beliefs of others when visiting Indonesia or any other country.

​

The people of Indonesia seem to overall accept others' religions, and often tell tourists that "Humanity is the best religion".

Indonesia has made significant progress in promoting gender equality in recent years, but there are still some issues that need to be addressed. Women in Indonesia have the same legal rights as men, and there are laws in place to protect women from discrimination and violence. However, cultural and social norms can sometimes limit the ability of women to fully participate in all aspects of society.

​

For example, women in Indonesia are often underrepresented in leadership positions, both in the public and private sectors. In addition, the gender pay gap persists, with women earning less than men for doing the same job.

​

There are also issues related to reproductive health and family planning, as well as violence against women, which remain major challenges. However, there are efforts underway to address these issues and to promote gender equality in Indonesia.

​

Last December (2022), Indonesia passed a new law that prohibits extra-marital sexual relations or living together with anyone other than your spouse. 

FOOD

Indonesia is a diverse and culturally rich country with a wide variety of traditional food dishes that vary from region to region. Some of the most popular traditional dishes from Indonesia include:

​

• Nasi Goreng: This is Indonesia's version of fried rice and is often served with a fried egg on top. It can include a variety of ingredients like vegetables, chicken, prawns, or even goat meat.

• Nasi Padang: Hailing from the Padang region of Sumatra, this meal features steamed rice served with an array of dishes, including rendang (a slow-cooked beef dish), sambal (spicy chili sauce), and various curries.

• Rendang: A rich and tender coconut beef stew that's explosively flavorful. It's often considered one of the world's most delicious dishes.

• Nasi Uduk: A Javanese dish of steamed rice cooked with coconut milk, served with a variety of side dishes such as fried chicken, peanuts, fried-shallots, and sambal.

• Sate (Satay): Skewered and grilled meat, usually served with a peanut sauce and rice cakes. Chicken and beef are common choices.

• Gado-Gado: A vegetable salad served with a peanut sauce dressing. It often includes ingredients like boiled eggs, tofu, and shrimp crackers.

• Nasi Kuning: Yellow rice, typically served with a variety of side dishes, including fried chicken, omelet, and fried-shrimp krupuk.

• Mie Goreng: Fried noodles stir-fried with vegetables and your choice of meat or seafood, often served with a sweet soy sauce.

• Bakso: Indonesian meatball soup, usually made from beef, served with noodles and a flavorful broth.

• Soto: A traditional Indonesian soup, often made with chicken, beef, or mutton, and flavored with turmeric. It's typically served with rice and a variety of toppings.

• Rujak: A spicy fruit salad, combining various tropical fruits with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.

• Nasi Tumpeng: A cone-shaped rice dish often served during special occasions and celebrations. It symbolizes good fortune and is accompanied by various side dishes.

• Pisang Goreng: Deep-fried bananas or plantains, often coated in a crispy batter.

• Ayam Goreng: Indonesian-style fried chicken, typically marinated in a mixture of turmeric and other spices before frying.

• Lumpia: Spring rolls filled with vegetables, shrimp, or chicken, often served with a sweet chili sauce.

• Kerak Telor: A Betawi dish made from glutinous rice cooked with coconut and served with a crispy omelet on top.

• Sambal: A spicy chili sauce or condiment that is a staple in Indonesian cuisine and comes in many regional variations.

HAND GESTURES

There are several hand gestures that can be considered impolite or offensive in Indonesia, as in many other cultures. It's essential to be aware of these gestures to avoid causing unintentional offense while in the country. Here are a few hand gestures that you should avoid:

1. The Left Hand: In Indonesian culture, the left hand is traditionally considered impolite because it is associated with tasks such as cleaning oneself after using the toilet. Therefore, it is best to use your right hand for activities like handshakes, giving and receiving objects, and gesturing.

2. Pointing with the Index Finger: Pointing directly at someone with your index finger is considered impolite and can be seen as confrontational. Instead, it's more respectful to use your thumb or your entire hand to point at something or someone.

3. Showing the Sole of Your Foot: Just like in many other Asian cultures, showing the sole of your foot to someone, especially an elder or authority figure, is considered disrespectful. Avoid sitting with your legs outstretched or pointing your feet at someone.

4. Thumbs Up: While the thumbs-up gesture is generally positive in many Western cultures, it can have a different meaning in Indonesia. In some parts of the country, including Java and Bali, a thumbs-up can be interpreted as rude or even offensive. 

5. Using Your Feet for anything other than walking: Touching objects or people with your feet is considered disrespectful. Avoid using your feet to point at things, push objects, or touch others.