Origin of the name: The term “Indonesia” originated from a suggestion by Austrian scholar Adolf Bastian in 1884. Combining the Greek words “Indos” (India) and “Nesos” (islands), the name reflects the archipelago’s geographical nature and historical ties to India. Despite initial concerns about being perceived as an extension of India, the name “Indonesia” gained acceptance among Indonesian nationalists in the early 20th century. In 1928, the Indonesian Youth Congress officially endorsed “Indonesia” as the country’s future name. Upon gaining independence from Dutch rule in 1945, Indonesia formally adopted “Indonesia” as its official name.

Origin & Inspiration for the Flag: The Indonesian flag, known as “Sang Saka Merah Putih” (Red and White), has a rich history dating back centuries. Its colors, red and white, are believed to have originated from several sources :

• Majapahit Empire (13th-16th century): The flag’s design is likely inspired by the banner of the Majapahit Empire, a powerful Hindu-Buddhist kingdom that ruled over much of Southeast Asia.
• Austronesian Mythology: Some scholars suggest that the colors represent the duality of Mother Earth (red) and Father Sky (white), a common theme in Austronesian mythology.
• Revolution Against Dutch Rule: During the Indonesian struggle for independence from the Netherlands (1945-1949), the red and white flag became a powerful symbol of resistance and unity.

Early Use and Adoption:

• 19th Century: The red and white colors gained prominence in the 19th century as symbols of Indonesian identity and resistance against Dutch colonialism.
• 1928: The colors were officially adopted by the Indonesian nationalist movement during the Second Indonesian Youth Congress.
• August 17, 1945: The Indonesian flag was formally adopted on August 17, 1945, three days after the country declared independence.

Moments to Remember:

• Surabaya Incident (1945): During the Battle of Surabaya, Indonesian youths famously tore the blue strip off a Dutch flag and raised it as the Indonesian flag, symbolizing their defiance against colonialism.
• Transfer of Sovereignty (1949): The Indonesian flag was hoisted again on December 27, 1949, marking the formal transfer of sovereignty from the Netherlands to Indonesia.

Symbolism and Meaning:
The colors of the Indonesian flag have various interpretations:

• Red: Represents courage, bravery, and strength.
• White: Represents purity, honesty, and peace.
• The flag also embodies the ideals of unity, freedom, and national pride for the Indonesian people.

Capital City of Indonesia: The current capital city of Indonesia is Jakarta, a bustling metropolis with a rich history dating back centuries. As the largest city in Southeast Asia, Jakarta boasts a vibrant cultural scene, and a strategic economic hub, and serves as the political centre of the nation. However, its continued growth has brought challenges such as overcrowding, infrastructure strain, and environmental concerns. Recognizing these issues, the Indonesian government has embarked on an ambitious plan to relocate the capital to a new, planned city called Nusantara. Situated in East Kalimantan, Nusantara is envisioned as a modern, sustainable, and resilient city designed to address the shortcomings of Jakarta.

The move to Nusantara aims to alleviate the pressure on Jakarta, allowing it to focus on its role as a major economic and cultural center. Additionally, Nusantara presents an opportunity to create a future-proof capital, equipped with cutting-edge technology and infrastructure, and designed to withstand environmental threats like rising sea levels. While the relocation process is still ongoing and faces various hurdles, the potential benefits of establishing Nusantara as the new capital city of Indonesia are significant. It marks a bold step towards addressing the challenges of urbanization and creating a sustainable future for the nation.

History & Independence: Indonesia’s history stretches back thousands of years, marked by the rise and fall of powerful kingdoms, periods of colonization, and ultimately, the struggle for independence. Here’s a brief timeline of some key events:

Pre-Colonial Period (Before 1602)

• 4th Century BCE: Earliest known stone inscriptions appear in East Kalimantan.
• 4th Century CE: The Hindu kingdom of Tarumanagara emerges in West Java.
• 7th Century: Srivijaya, a powerful Buddhist kingdom, dominates the maritime trade in Southeast Asia.
• 8th Century: The Hindu-Buddhist Sailendra dynasty builds the majestic Borobudur temple in Central Java.
• 13th Century: The Majapahit Empire, led by Gajah Mada, unites much of present-day Indonesia and becomes a major regional power.

Colonial Period (1602-1945)

• 1602: The Dutch East India Company (VOC) establishes a foothold in Indonesia, marking the beginning of Dutch colonial rule.
• 17th-18th Centuries: The Dutch exploited Indonesia’s natural resources, particularly spices, while facing resistance from local rulers.
• 19th Century: The Dutch expanded their control over the archipelago, consolidating their colonial administration.
• Early 20th Century: Indonesian nationalists begin to emerge, demanding independence from Dutch rule.

Independence and Modern Indonesia (1945-Present)

• 945: Sukarno and Hatta declare independence for Indonesia on August 17th, triggering the Indonesian National Revolution.
• 1946: Linggadjati Agreement was signed, which called for the creation of a United States of Indonesia with the Netherlands as a partner. However, the Linggadjati Agreement broke down, and the fighting resumed.
• 1948: Renville Agreement was signed, which granted the Dutch control over much of Indonesian territory. However, the Indonesian government rejected the agreement, and the fighting continued.
• 1949: After four years of struggle, Indonesia gains full independence from the Dutch trough Round Table Conference. This conference was held in The Hague, Netherlands, to discuss the future of Indonesia. The conference resulted in the Roem-Van Roijen Agreement, which called for the transfer of sovereignty from the Netherlands to Indonesia. This marked the end of the Indonesian National Revolution and the beginning of a new era for Indonesia as an independent nation.
• 1950s-1960s: Sukarno leads the country as president, pursuing a policy of neutrality in the Cold War and promoting national unity.
• 1967: Suharto takes power in a military coup, ushering in an era of authoritarian rule and economic development.
• 1998: Suharto resigns amidst widespread protests, leading to a period of political and economic reforms. During this year, B.J. Habibie became the third President of Indonesia.
• 1999: Abdurrahman Wahid elected as Indonesia’s first democratic president after Suharto’s fall. He promoted interfaith dialogue and social justice.
• 2001: Abdurrahman Wahid was removed from office by the People’s Consultative Assembly due to heath Concern. Megawati Sukarnoputri became president because she was Abdurrahman Wahid’s vice president. She focused on economic stability and poverty reduction
• 2004: Indonesia holds its first direct presidential elections, marking a significant step towards democracy. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono become the Indonesia’s first directly elected president. He focused on democracy and human rights
• 2014: Joko Widodo becomes president, focusing on economic growth, infrastructure development, and social programs.

From its ancient roots to its modern-day achievements, Indonesia has forged a unique identity shaped by diverse cultures, religions, and historical influences.

Government: Indonesia operates under a presidential republic with a unitary system of government, meaning power is centralized at the national level. The President leads the country as both the head of state and the head of government, elected by popular vote for a five-year term with a single re-election. The Vice President accompanies the President as their deputy.

Indonesia’s bicameral legislature comprises the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) and the People’s Representative Council (DPR). The MPR holds the highest legislative authority, consisting of 575 members: 550 elected by popular vote and 25 appointed by the President. The DPR serves as the lower house, with 550 members all elected through popular vote.

The Supreme Court oversees Indonesia’s judicial system, acting as the highest court with final rulings on all legal matters. The Supreme Court comprises 50 justices appointed by the President with the approval of the DPR.

Indonesia is divided into 34 provinces, each governed by a governor. These provinces are further subdivided into regencies and cities, headed by regents and mayors, respectively. Districts and sub-districts, led by district heads and sub-district heads, respectively, make up the final administrative level.

The Indonesian government shoulders the responsibility of providing essential services to its citizens, including education, healthcare, and social welfare. Additionally, the government regulates the economy and maintains law and order.

Official Language: Indonesian is the official language of Indonesia and is spoken by most people in the country. English is also spoken by many people in big cities, but it is not as widely used. The culture of Indonesia varies from region to region. In Jakarta, the original Betawi culture is not as visible as it once was, but it is still present in the language, which is similar to Indonesian but with different pronunciation and intonation. In other regions of Indonesia, such as Java and Sumatra, regional languages are still commonly used, even in official settings. If you want to communicate directly with local residents in these areas, you may need an English translator. Translators are readily available, especially in areas near tourist destinations.

Indigenous Language: Indonesia is a diverse archipelago with a rich cultural tapestry, including a multitude of indigenous languages. The country is home to over 700 languages, making it one of the most linguistically diverse nations in the world. These languages are typically categorized into several major groups, such as Austronesian, Papuan, and others. Bahasa Indonesia, a standardized form of Malay, serves as the official language and a lingua franca for communication across diverse ethnic groups. However, many communities maintain their indigenous languages, which play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and identity. The Austronesian language family dominates in Indonesia, encompassing languages like Javanese, Sundanese, and Balinese. Additionally, the Papuan languages are spoken in Papua and West Papua provinces, contributing to the linguistic diversity.

Despite this richness, some indigenous languages face the threat of extinction due to factors like urbanization, migration, and the influence of dominant languages. Efforts are being made to document and revitalize these languages to ensure their survival and cultural significance for future generations.

Business Culture: Indonesia is culturally diverse, the standard way of addressing any present person upon arrival and departure from any gathering is a handshake.

WhatsApp is the most widely used online communication application, used for both business communication and communication with government officials. Companies may not respond to emails very quickly, especially if the sender is not well known.

Invitations to official events usually specify the appropriate dress code. Batik is a formal attire commonly worn in meetings by both Indonesian and foreign professionals, regardless of their gender. Long-sleeved batik shirts are considered particularly formal and are a popular choice. For men, trousers, shirts, and ties are standard business attire. Women typically wear a two-piece suit with a blazer or a simple dress with sleeves in business settings.

Due to Jakarta’s frequent traffic congestion, it’s crucial to factor in ample travel time for all meetings. Many business meetings are held over lunch (between 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM) or dinner (between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM). It’s best to avoid scheduling meetings on Friday afternoons, as this is a day of prayer with extended lunch breaks for businesses (typically 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM).

Indonesia boasts a rich cultural tapestry, deeply influenced by its diverse religious landscape. While Islam is the majority faith, with 88% of the population practicing, the nation embraces a spirit of tolerance and respect for all denominations. Alcohol and pork are generally avoided by those following Islamic dietary laws, but many restaurants cater to a broader audience. Before ordering, inquiring about the availability of alcohol or pork dishes is a considerate gesture, demonstrating sensitivity to cultural and religious practices. This simple act of respect fosters understanding and allows everyone to enjoy a delicious and culturally enriching dining experience.

Demographics: The total population of Indonesia in 2023 is 277.5 million. Indonesia’s population is expanding at a rate 1.08% per annum. A large population also reflects the amount of manpower resources. Despite the unequal population density. DKI Jakarta is the most populous province and highest population density.Based on Statistics Indonesia (BPS) in 2023, 69.28% of the population will be in the productive age group (15-64 years). Meanwhile, the percentage of toddlers and children is much higher than the elderly. In the future, Indonesia’s population is estimated to be above 300 million in 2033. The dependency ratio will be above 50% after 2037. The demographic bonus will be experienced until 2037.

Time Zones: Indonesia encompasses three distinct time zones due to its extensive geographical coverage along the equator.

These time zones are as follows:
1. Western Indonesian Time (WIB):

• UTC+7:00
• WIB is utilized in the western regions of Indonesia, including significant islands like Sumatra, Java, and the capital city Jakarta.

2. Central Indonesian Time (WITA):

• UTC+8:00
• WITA is applicable to central areas, covering islands such as Bali, Sulawesi, and portions of Kalimantan (Borneo).

3. Eastern Indonesian Time (WIT):

• UTC+9:00
• WIT is observed in the eastern part of the country, encompassing regions like Papua, Maluku, and certain parts of Kalimantan.

Indonesia does not adopt Daylight Saving Time, ensuring that the time differences remain consistent throughout the year. The significant variation in time zones is a result of Indonesia’s archipelagic nature, spanning a wide range of longitudes. For instance, when it’s 10:00 AM in Jakarta (WIB), it’s 11:00 AM in Makassar (WITA) and 1:00 PM in Jayapura (WIT). Travelers to Indonesia should take note of the different time zones and adjust their clocks accordingly to avoid any scheduling mishaps.

Climate: Indonesia, an archipelago nestled amidst the Indian and Pacific Oceans in Southeast Asia, boasts a rich tapestry of ecosystems and a mesmerizing diversity of flora and fauna. With over 270 million inhabitants, Indonesia stands as the world’s fourth most populous nation.

The climate of Indonesia is classified as tropical, characterized by hot and humid weather throughout the year. Although the climate varies by region, with the highlands of Sumatra and New Guinea experiencing cooler temperatures than the lowlands. The eastern islands of Indonesia generally receive less rainfall than the western islands.

The average annual temperature in Indonesia hovers around 27°C , with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season extends from October to April, while the dry season spans from May to September.

With a diverse climate comes several unique features:

• The average humidity in Indonesia is around 80%.
• The average annual rainfall in Indonesia is around 2,000 mm (79 inches).
• The strongest typhoons in Indonesia usually occur between November and March.

Climate change poses a substantial threat to Indonesia. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and altered rainfall patterns are anticipated consequences of climate change. These changes are likely to have a significant impact on Indonesia’s economy, infrastructure, and agriculture.

Therefore, it is crucial for Indonesia to implement climate adaptation and mitigation strategies to address the challenges posed by climate change and protect its rich biodiversity and the well-being of its people.

Borders Of Indonesia: Indonesia is the largest archipelagic country worldwide with more than 17,000 islands. This also made Indonesia shares several land and maritime borders with neighbouring countries.

Land Borders

• Indonesia shares a 1,881 km (1,169 mi) land border with Malaysia on the island of Borneo. The border aligns with the equidistant line between their baselines.
• Indonesia shares an 820 km (510 mi) land border with Papua New Guinea on the island of New Guinea. The border primarily follows mountains and rivers.
• Indonesia shares a 497 km (309 mi) land border with East Timor on the island of Timor. The border was established in 2002 following East Timor’s independence from Indonesia.

Maritime Borders

1. Indonesia and Australia share a maritime border in the Arafura Sea and the Timor Sea. An ongoing maritime dispute exists between the two countries regarding the extent of their exclusive economic zones in the Timor Sea.
2. Indonesia and India share a maritime border in the Andaman Sea. Both countries have agreed to collaborate on maritime security and search and rescue operations.
3. Indonesia and Malaysia share maritime borders in the Malacca Strait, the Strait of Singapore, and the Celebes Sea. Numerous ongoing maritime disputes exist between the two countries, including over the sovereignty of several islands.
4. Indonesia and the Philippines share a maritime border in the Celebes Sea, the Sulu Sea, and the Mindanao Sea. The two countries have agreed to cooperate on maritime security and fisheries management.
5. Indonesia and Singapore share a maritime border in the Strait of Singapore. The two countries maintain a close economic relationship and have cooperatively managed shipping traffic in the strait.
6. Indonesia and Thailand share a maritime border in the Andaman Sea. Both countries have agreed to cooperate on maritime security and fisheries management.
7. Indonesia and Vietnam share a maritime border in the Natuna Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. The two countries have agreed to collaborate on maritime security and search and rescue operations.

Indonesia’s borders hold strategic importance for its national security and economic development. Maritime borders facilitate international trade and shipping.

Size of Indonesia: Indonesia is the 14th largest country in the world, spanning over 5,100 km east to west and 1,700 km north to south. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic state. New Guinea, shared with Papua New Guinea, is Indonesia’s largest island. Major islands include Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, and Halmahera. Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, lies on Java’s northwestern coast. Indonesia’s rich history and culture are complemented by its diverse population of over 270 million, making it the fourth most populous country globally. Indonesia operates as a republic under a presidential system, divided into 34 provinces.

Religion: Indonesia is a country with a multitude of religions, with the largest Muslim population in the world, with 231 million Muslims, making up 87.2% of the total population. Other religions include Christianity (10.3%), Hinduism (1.7%), Buddhism (0.7%), and Confucianism (0.0%). Indonesia’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion for all citizens, and the government generally respects this right in practice. However, there have been some instances of religious intolerance and violence, particularly against minority religious groups.

• Islam is the dominant religion in Indonesia, and it has shaped the country’s culture and society in many ways. Muslims in Indonesia practice a variety of traditions, including fasting during Ramadan, performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, and celebrating Islamic holidays. Indonesia is also home to a rich tradition of Islamic scholarship.
• Christianity is the second-largest religion in Indonesia, with approximately 28 million adherents.
• Hinduism and Buddhism have been practiced in Indonesia for centuries, and they continue to play an important role in the country’s religious landscape. Hinduism is most strongly practiced on the island of Bali, where it is an integral part of the Balinese culture. Buddhism is more widely practiced in Indonesia, but it is still a minority religion.
• Confucianism has also been influential in Indonesia, particularly among the Chinese minority.

Indonesian Currency: The Indonesian Rupiah (Rp, IDR) serves as the country’s official currency, managed by Bank Indonesia.

History of the Rupiah
The Rupiah’s introduction occurred in 1949, replacing the Dutch guilder following Indonesia’s independence. The term “rupiah” stems from the Sanskrit word “rupam,” meaning “silver.”

Navigating the Rupiah
Rupiah coins come in denominations of 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 rupees. Rupiah banknotes are available in denominations of 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 rupees.

Exchange Rate Dynamics
The Rupiah’s exchange rate against major currencies experiences fluctuations. As of today (7/12/23), 1 GBP is equivalent to approximately 19,500 IDR.

https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/convert/&Amount=1&From=GBP&To=IDR

Practical Tips for Using Rupiah

• Carry cash as not all places accept credit cards.
• Be vigilant against counterfeit currency.
• Bargain when shopping at traditional markets.
• Tipping is not customary in Indonesia, but a small gratuity
• is appreciated for exceptional service.