Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populated country, with more than half of its people living on the island of Java. There are over 1,300 different ethnic groups, with the majority being of Austronesian and Melanesian origin.

Given the country’s history and confluence of cultures, religions, and languages, there is much to say about its people’s diversity. That said, most people are of Malay descent, speak Austronesian tongues, and hold Islamic beliefs. 

Whilst there are some 700 recognised languages spoken here, the country’s official language is Indonesian – a variant of Malay known as Bahasa Indonesia. This was used in the royal houses of Sumatra and was chosen as the lingua franca as it is not associated with any particular ethnic group, thereby promoting the unification of the country’s people.

Being a multicultural, multilingual, and multi-ethnic country, Indonesia’s culture is heavily influenced by neighbouring lands – giving rise to a unique conglomeration unlike any other. That said, many native communities still preserve their original cultures, with outside influence being limited or non-existent.

Life in Indonesia is a beautiful, chaotic mix of deep spiritual traditions and legendary local warmth, anchored by the cultural ethos of community cooperation. Whether navigating Jakarta’s bustling traffic or relaxing near Bali’s quiet rice fields, life moves at a friendly pace where family always comes first and people are gonna greet you with a smile. From the daily call to prayer to the sizzling street food carts on every corner, it is an incredibly welcoming place where travelers find themselves right at home.