Hello Indonesian Culture friends, are you still curious about Indonesia? With the Culture? With the food? Or other? Okay, on this occasion I will discuss about Visiting Indonesia: Good and Bad Indonesian People.
Indonesia boasts unique features that set it apart from other countries, including its natural resources, culture, language, and the attributes of its citizens. While the country possesses abundant wealth across various sectors, what sets it apart is the iconic reputation of its people, making tourists feel at home and eager to vacation in Indonesia.
Indonesia's allure lies in its vast array of natural resources, stunning landscapes, and diverse ethnic groups, all of which have unique economic, political, socio-cultural, and tourism appeal. This makes it no surprise that Indonesia has a captivating charm that draws in global citizens, whether as tourists, immigrants, or investors.
Indonesia is a land of diverse people, each with their own unique character traits. However, there are some characteristics that are so distinct that they are often used to generalize the Indonesian people as a whole.
Despite any controversy, one such characteristic is undeniable. Unlike western cultures, which tend to be more closed off, Indonesians are known for their welcoming nature towards new people. When tourists visit Indonesia, they are often greeted with open arms, sometimes even with a special traditional ceremony designed to entertain and welcome guests.
Indonesians have a unique way of greeting tourists that makes them feel like they are already close acquaintances, even though they may have just met. This is a stark contrast to citizens of other countries who tend to be more reserved towards new people and may not readily greet strangers.
1. Smiling Easily at Strangers
Indonesians often leave a lasting impression on tourists, as they are known for their perpetually happy and smiling demeanor, even in the face of adversity. This unique trait is often surprising to many visitors, and as a result, tourists who spend an extended amount of time in Indonesia may find themselves smiling more often as well.
2. Cooperate with Each Other
Another characteristic of the Indonesian people is their strong sense of mutual cooperation within society. Gotong royong, which refers to working together for a common goal, has been a long-standing tradition within Indonesian culture, passed down from generation to generation.
This practice of gotong royong helps to bridge societal gaps and differences, promoting a more cohesive and harmonious community. Additionally, mutual cooperation is seen as a way to socialize, strengthen friendships, and maintain good relationships with neighbors.
3. Artistic
The artistic character is the only trait that is widely recognized as positive among Indonesians. The animistic beliefs inherent in Indonesian culture have a positive influence, as they encourage a deep connection with nature. Consequently, the artistic skills of the Indonesian people have flourished.
The existence of magnificent temples scattered throughout Java, including the world-renowned Borobudur Temple, is one of the reasons for the high artistic prowess of the Indonesian people. Additionally, the diverse and unique handicrafts created by Indonesians have gained international recognition and are in high demand. These crafts include pottery, copper and brass items, batik fabrics, weaving, wood and stone statues, as well as various paintings and carvings. The Indonesian people have a vivid imagination when it comes to creativity, which gives their works a unique appeal.
There are still many good characters from Indonesians that make foreign tourists admire and feel comfortable with Indonesians, but it would be unfair if I only explained the good side because behind that everyone has a bad side.
Here I will explain some of the bad sides of Indonesians that are common and dominant in some Indonesians.
4. Believe in the Supernatural
Indonesia's cultural and traditional roots in animism have led to a tendency to believe in superstitions. The Indonesian people have a deep-seated belief in things that are thought to possess supernatural powers. It is not uncommon for Indonesians to easily believe in mystical and magical phenomena, such as guardian spirits of places or sacred trees.
Despite the growth of technology and Indonesia's adoption of digital and computerized advancements, this superstitious character appears to be ingrained in the population. It seems that no matter what position one holds, how advanced their education or modern their lifestyle, Indonesians still hold on to their superstitious beliefs.
5. Hypocritical Character
What is the reason behind Indonesians having a hypocritical character? The answer lies in the country's past feudal system, which oppressed Indonesians for so long that it suppressed their courage to voice their opinions according to their conscience. As a result, Indonesians tend to be two-faced, presenting a different persona in public than in private, with a discrepancy between their words and actions. They prioritize security over honesty.
The kindness and piety displayed in social settings are often superficial and solely intended to gain respect and recognition from their peers. However, their true nature may not reflect such values. It is not uncommon for officials or religious leaders, who may appear virtuous, to be corrupt or engage in sinful behavior. Such incidents have shocked the public, as they did not expect such individuals to engage in such wrongdoing. This is the reality of Indonesian society, where many have a hypocritical character.
6. Feudal Spirit
The Indonesian people's feudal mindset fosters a character that craves respect, status, and authority. Many individuals will do anything to attain the positions or power they desire.
Unfortunately, those who hold positions of strength and power often misuse them to suppress those who are weaker. The powerful must be respected, while the powerless are expected to submit and serve those in power. Any defiance is met with denial.
This feudal mentality extends beyond work relationships and into other areas of society. For example, subordinates are expected to show respect to their superiors, but this respect is also expected to extend to the families of the superiors. Subordinate wives are required to respect the wives of their superiors, and even the children of subordinates are expected to respect the children of their superiors.
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